Commissioner King Takes Action on COVID-19 Hospital Bed Capacity

ATLANTA – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King took action today to shore up hospital bed capacity across Georgia as the state sees an increase in COVID-19 cases. Directive 20-EX-9 encourages insurance companies operating in Georgia to suspend preauthorization requirements for post-acute placements.

“Georgia’s hospitals are ground zero in our fight against COVD-19,” said Commissioner King. “They are currently experiencing high demand and are redeploying staff to provide direct patient care. As our state and nation deal with a resurgence in cases, it is crucial that our hospitals are able to free up bed space for these individuals.”

The Directive specifically requests that all issuers respond to requests to discharge patients to lower levels of care within 24 hours – including requests submitted on Fridays.

“Over the past year, Georgia’s insurance industry has repeatedly stepped up to the plate to help in our fight against this disease,” continued King. “I am confident that they will continue to work with us on this latest effort to free up much-needed hospital bed capacity.”

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The mission of the Office of the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians.