The Luigi Mangione Act: How California Could Transform Patient Rights in Health Insurance
The Luigi Mangione Act is a proposed California ballot initiative that could fundamentally change how health insurance companies handle medical treatment decisions. The initiative aims to protect patients by limiting insurance companies' ability to override physician recommendations.
Key Points of the Act:
- Insurance companies cannot delay, deny, or modify physician-recommended treatments if such actions could result in death, disability, or disfigurement
- All treatment decisions must be reviewed and signed off by licensed physicians
- Patients can sue insurance companies for triple damages plus legal fees if denied care leads to serious harm
- Makes it a felony for non-physician personnel to review or reject doctor-recommended care
- Requires clear, convincing evidence to withhold any treatment
Luigi Mangione in court
The act is named after Luigi Mangione, who was accused of killing a UnitedHealthcare executive. While this naming has sparked controversy, supporters argue it highlights the serious consequences of insurance companies overriding medical decisions.
The initiative is currently under review with a public comment period open through April 25, after which it may proceed to signature gathering. If passed, this legislation would significantly shift the balance of power between patients, physicians, and insurance providers in California's healthcare system.
Supporters emphasize the importance of medical decisions remaining between doctors and patients, while critics warn of potential increases in healthcare costs and operational challenges. Regardless of outcome, this initiative represents a significant attempt to reform healthcare decision-making in California.
