ALBANY, N.Y. (WROC) — Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation on Thursday to prevent health insurers from denying coverage for urgent and medically necessary procedures and treatments.

“When a doctor encounters unexpected complications during a surgical procedure or realizes additional treatment is immediately necessary if a patient is undergoing chemotherapy, they don’t have time to stop and wait for a new authorization from insurance companies – they need to act quickly to help the patient,” Governor Cuomo said. “This new law will help ensure health plans can no longer deny healthcare coverage for any medically necessary services or procedures just because they were not pre-authorized by the insurance company, and will help patients in a medically compromised state get the treatments they need quickly.”

Press release

The new law will help ensure that when a provider encounters unexpected complications, they do not have to stop and wait for authorization from health insurers. Instead, they can take the steps necessary to meet the patient’s needs.

The law will take effect in 90 days.