Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield‘s new policy will limit anesthesia coverage for extended surgeries, impacting patients in Connecticut, New York and Missouri, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

The health insurance provider announced it will no longer cover anesthesia costs for surgeries exceeding a specific time limit, leaving patients in these Midwest and East Coast regions responsible for the remainder of the bill.

Anthem’s new policy shifts financial responsibility for extended anesthesia to patients

The research organization stated that Anthem would pre-determine the time for anesthesia care during a surgery or procedure. Under the new policy, if an anesthesiologist submits a bill that extends longer than Anthem’s limit, Anthem can deny paying for the medical treatment.

Doctors condemn Anthem’s policy, citing risks to patient care and physician trust

The new policy could impact patients in Connecticut, New York and Missouri with Anthem as their health insurance carrier since anesthesia care is necessary for surgery patients. Doctors have demanded the provider reverse the policy since some patients may have “difficult, unusual or complicated” issues during a procedure and may need extra time.

“This is just the latest in a long line of appalling behavior by commercial health insurers looking to drive their profits up at the expense of patients and physicians providing essential care,” Donald E. Arnold, M.D., FACHE, FASA, said in a statement obtained from the news release.

“It’s a cynical money grab by Anthem, designed to take advantage of the commitment anesthesiologists make thousands of times each day to provide their patients with expert, complete and safe anesthesia care. This egregious policy breaks the trust between Anthem and its policyholders who expect their health insurer to pay physicians for the entirety of the care they need.”

Connecticut senator slams Anthem’s new policy and demands a reversal

Democratic Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy took to social media and shared his thoughts on the new policy and how it could affect his constituents.

“This is appalling. Saddling patients with thousands of dollars in surprise additional medical debt. And for what? Just to boost corporate profits? Reverse this decision immediately,” Murphy tweeted.

Anthem announced the new policy, which will take effect Feb. 1, in November, and excludes patients under 22 or maternity-related care. 

The ASA urges those concerned about the insurer’s policy to contact their insurance commissioner or state legislators.

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