House amendment expands copay mandate

The Iowa House on Wednesday adopted an amendment to the Health and Human Services bill- Senate File 505 - that expands the current co-pay equalization for chiropractors to the following specialists: physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists. Although ABI and its members support the services those professions provide, the amendment is interfering with private contracts and limits choice in the marketplace when selecting the best plan for an individual or small group. The amendment, sponsored by Reps. Bobby Kaufmann (R-Wilton) and Chris Hall (D-Sioux City), passed on a 74-22-4 vote. The bill will go to conference committee where any differences between the House and Senate bill, including the language may be considered.