AB 574: Prior authorization: physical therapy.

The bill aims to reform prior authorization requirements for physical therapy. It prohibits health care service plans and health insurance policies from imposing prior authorization for the initial 12 physical therapy treatment visits for new conditions. However, prior authorization is allowed for recurring conditions. The bill also requires physical therapy providers to verify coverage and disclose the enrollee's or insured's share of the cost of care. Furthermore, providers must obtain separate written consent for costs not covered by the plan and provide a written estimate of the cost of care if coverage is denied. The bill does not apply to Medi-Cal managed care plan contracts.