Insurance: no-fault; utilization reviews; require compliance with decision on appeal. Amends sec. 3157a of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3157a).

Michigan Senate Bill 547 (SB0547) aims to amend the state's no-fault insurance law by requiring insurance companies to comply with decisions made during the appeal process of utilization reviews. Utilization reviews are assessments conducted by insurers to determine the necessity and appropriateness of medical treatments under no-fault insurance claims. If a treatment is initially denied but later approved upon appeal, this bill mandates that insurers honor the appeal decision and provide coverage accordingly.

Supporters of SB0547 argue that the bill strengthens patient rights by ensuring that medical treatments deemed necessary upon appeal are covered by insurers. This change is seen as a step toward greater accountability for insurance companies and a means to prevent undue delays or denials of essential medical care for policyholders.

Critics of SB0547 express concern that mandating compliance with appeal decisions could lead to increased insurance premiums. They argue that obligating insurers to cover treatments initially deemed unnecessary may result in higher costs for insurance companies, which could be passed on to consumers through higher premiums.