Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-Bronx) has introduced the โAnesthesia for All Actโ in response to Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shieldโs attempt to impose time limits on anesthesia coverage. The bill aims to prevent insurers from capping anesthesia duration, ensuring decisions are based on medical necessity as determined by anesthesiologists. Torres stated, โThe purpose of medicine should be to prevent pain rather than cause it through the denial of anesthesia.โ
The legislation seeks to prohibit insurers from denying reimbursement based solely on pre-set time limits for anesthesia during surgeries. Torres emphasized the need for accountability in healthcare, saying, โWe cannot trust insurers to do right by doctors and patients out of the kindness of their hearts.โ This bill comes amid heightened scrutiny of the healthcare industry following Anthemโs policy reversal and public outrage over insurance practices.
The timing of this legislation aligns with recent events in the healthcare industry, including the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Thompson was fatally shot in Manhattan, sparking online debates about the healthcare systemโs impact on patients and public frustration with insurance providers. Security footage revealed a suspect in the killing, recently identified as 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, but the motive remains under investigation while officials comb through his manifesto.
Governor Kathy Hochul also condemned Anthemโs proposed policy, asserting, โDonโt mess with the health and well-being of New Yorkers โ not on my watch.โ Hochul announced her officeโs role in pressuring Anthem to reverse its decision, reflecting bipartisan support for protecting patient rights. The proposed legislation further strengthens this commitment by addressing systemic issues within the insurance industry.
The bill has garnered attention as part of Torresโ broader political platform. Torres, who is reportedly considering a gubernatorial run in 2026, has used the controversy to highlight inefficiencies in New Yorkโs healthcare system. His criticism of state governance includes calls for regulatory reforms to enhance access to medical care while preventing insurers from overriding medical expertise.
The โAnesthesia for All Actโ represents a critical step toward safeguarding patient welfare in medical procedures. By eliminating arbitrary insurer policies, the bill underscores the importance of prioritizing patient care over cost management in the healthcare system.