address preauthorization requirements for certain health care services and utilization review requirements for certain health benefit plans.

SB 158 modifies health care regulations in South Dakota by reducing preauthorization requirements for specific medical services and adjusting utilization review standards for certain health benefit plans. The bill directly affects health insurance providers, healthcare facilities, and patients by streamlining approval processes for covered services. Key provisions eliminate or limit prior authorization mandates for particular procedures and establish clearer criteria for when utilization reviews must occur. These changes aim to simplify administrative processes while maintaining oversight of health benefit plan operations.