California Code of Regulations Title 28 - Managed Health Care

California Code of Regulations – Title 28: Managed Health Care

Title 28 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) governs Managed Health Care and is primarily administered by the California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC). It sets the rules and requirements for health care service plans, such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and other managed care organizations operating in the state.

Purpose of Title 28

Title 28 supports the enforcement of the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, ensuring that health care service plans:

Provide adequate medical care

Operate fairly and efficiently

Are financially sound

Handle enrollee grievances appropriately

Key Areas Covered

Some of the major topics and regulatory requirements in Title 28 include:

1. Licensing of Health Care Service Plans

Rules for initial and ongoing licensing

Requirements for out-of-state plans offering services in California

2. Financial Requirements

Minimum net equity standards

Tangible net equity and working capital requirements

Reporting and audit obligations

3. Grievance and Appeals Processes

Procedures health plans must follow to handle member complaints

Timelines and documentation standards

4. Disclosure and Marketing

Standards for plan disclosures, such as Evidence of Coverage (EOC)

Rules on advertising and marketing to ensure accuracy and fairness

5. Provider Contracts and Networks

Requirements for network adequacy (e.g., timely access to care)

Contracts with physicians and hospitals

Continuity of care for enrollees

6. Utilization Review and Medical Necessity

Standards and timelines for utilization review decisions

Appeals of medical necessity determinations

7. Timely Access to Care Regulations

Maximum wait times for appointments with primary care, specialists, mental health providers, etc.

8. Mental Health Parity and Telehealth

Requirements for equal treatment of mental and physical health conditions

Standards for telehealth services

Where to Access Title 28

You can find the full text of Title 28 of the CCR here:

DMHC Regulations Portal: https://www.dmhc.ca.gov

Westlaw’s California Regulations Database: https://govt.westlaw.com/calregs

 

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