CalPERS board backs bill requiring improved provider‑directory accuracy for HMOs

The CalPERS Board on June 18 voted to adopt a support position for Assembly Bill 280, a California bill that would require health care service plans and insurers regulated in the state to verify and improve the accuracy of provider directories to specified benchmarks between 2026 and 2029.

Staff presented the bill and the recommended support position. Danny Brown, CalPERS staff, described AB 280’s principal requirement: annual verification of provider directory accuracy and staged accuracy benchmarks beginning with 60% accuracy by July 1, 2026, with a target that directories be 95% accurate by July 1, 2029. Brown said CalPERS already contractually requires plans to maintain and update directories but noted accuracy remains a persistent challenge that affects members’ ability to find in‑network providers.

Staff recommended a support position while asking the bill’s author to amend AB 280 so providers also share responsibility for maintaining accurate directories. The recommended amendment, staff said, would increase the chance the statutory accuracy goals could be met because provider participation is essential to maintaining current provider listings.

Board members asked implementation questions. Members noted the bill applies to health plans regulated by California regulators (Health Care Services Board or Department of Managed Health Care) and not to CalPERS’ self‑insured PPO product, which is not subject to the same state regulation. Staff said improved HMO directory accuracy likely also would help PPO members, because provider networks overlap.

The board approved the support position with staff’s recommended amendment language and directed staff to engage with legislative and regulatory stakeholders on implementation. The motion passed on a roll‑call vote.