Vermont healthcare advocate proposes expanded protections and collaboration for consumers

The Senate Health and Welfare Committee convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss proposed modifications to existing health care laws in Vermont. The meeting focused on enhancing the role of the Office of the Health Care Advocate and ensuring better protection for consumers in health insurance matters.

The first item of discussion centered on the facilitation of public comments from buyers, with committee members expressing the need for clarity on how to ensure effective communication. The conversation highlighted the importance of modifying language to enhance understanding and engagement.

Subsequent discussions addressed specific amendments to existing laws. One significant proposal was to expand the scope of recommendations made to the Green Mountain Care Board. The committee suggested that the Office should also provide suggestions to the Department of Financial Regulation and other state entities, aiming to protect and promote the interests of Vermonters regarding health insurance and access to care.

Another key point was the collaboration with consumer organizations to promote affordable health care. The committee proposed modifying the language to emphasize working together with various health care and policy-related organizations.

The committee also discussed changes to ensure that all Vermonters have timely access to services provided by the Office of the Health Care Advocate. Additionally, the timing for the annual report from the Office was adjusted from January 1 to January 15.

Further modifications included expanding the office's ability to review health insurance records with consumer consent and pursuing remedies for any individual or group facing issues with health insurance or access to care. The committee emphasized the need for the Office to represent the interests of all Vermonters in hearings before the Green Mountain Care Board and other state agencies.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these modifications to enhance consumer protection and ensure that the interests of Vermonters are adequately represented in health care matters. The committee plans to continue refining these proposals in future sessions.