"New Jersey Respect for Physicians Act"; requires prompt response by insurers to requests for prior authorization of health care services.

S 959, the "New Jersey Respect for Physicians Act," requires health insurance companies to respond to doctors' and hospitals' requests for prior authorization of medical services within strict timeframes. For most cases (inpatient or outpatient care), insurers must approve or deny requests within 48 hours - reducing the previous 15-day deadline - and must contact providers by phone within 4 hours to discuss the request. If insurers miss these deadlines, the service is automatically approved, and insurers must pay for the care. The bill directly affects healthcare providers seeking authorization and insurance companies handling those requests, aiming to reduce delays in patient care.