06/11/2026
OSMA Delivers Major Advocacy Win for Physicians!
Insurer Takebacks Reform Legislation Heads to Governor’s Desk for Signature
For years, Ohio physicians have faced a frustrating reality: an insurance company can approve and pay a claim, only to come back months—or even years later—and demand the money back.
Now, this is one step closer to changing... Thanks to OSMA's leadership, SB 162 has cleared both chambers at the Statehouse and is on the governor's desk awaiting his signature to become law. OSMA is absolutely thrilled to report this victory for one of our major proactive advocacy agenda items from our slate of insurance reform initiatives.
The bill passed in the Ohio House Wednesday with a unanimous vote of 91-0, and the subsequent vote by the Senate to concur on minor changes made in the House also proceeded with no opposition (33-0). This OSMA-led effort receiving the full support of the Legislature is a testament to its necessity and resonance within the medical community as well as with elected officials, and also to the hard work of OSMA’s Advocacy team to push SB 162 forward since it was introduced last spring.
As you may recall, this legislation makes several key changes to the insurer payment audit process that will reduce the burden that process causes.
What This Means for Physicians
- Decrease Ohio’s current 24-month insurer takeback timeframe to one year. This will give physician practices more predictability and financial stability, which is critical as many operate with limited administrative resources.
- Extend the provider appeal period from 30 to 60 days. This acknowledges how complex and time consuming it can be for providers to respond to takeback determinations, and ensures physicians have a fair chance to submit the necessary documentation.
- Require electronic notification of takebacks when an electronic system exists. This will help streamline communication and reduce unnecessary administrative work for practices, allowing more time to be spent on patient care.
A Win Built through Relentless Advocacy
OSMA’s Advocacy team was proud to lead the charge to help SB 162 over each hurdle in the legislative process. This is meaningful reform that will create a positive impact for Ohio physicians, medical practices, and the patients they serve.
We are grateful for the leadership of Sen. Bill Blessing (R-Colerain Twp.), the sponsor of SB 162, as well as the partnership and collaboration of numerous other physician and healthcare advocacy groups to help this legislation cross the finish line. Additionally, we thank OSMA physician members Dr. Marc Antonchak and Dr. John Bastulli for providing critical assistance in testimony during the committee hearings process for SB 162 over the past year.
The Finish Line Is in Sight
The bill now awaits Governor DeWine's signature. This is a major milestone—not only for OSMA, but for every Ohio physician who has experienced the challenges and frustrations of insurer takebacks.
Please join us in celebrating this incredible victory for OSMA and the Ohio physician community—and thank you to our physician members whose engagement and support make victories like this possible. Together, we are proving that advocacy works.