Hawaii's Largest Insurer has told physicians Propofol for colonoscopies should only be used for high-risk patients, according to a KITV.com report.
In a written statement about Propofol, Hawaii Medical Services Association said, “Per national guidelines and our policy, it should only be used when the patient is in the high risk category," according to the report.
An anesthesiologist quoted in the report said HMSA has made obtaining authorization in advance to use Propofol a challenge and then the payor often denies claims for its use; he also said a new rule in December will prevent patients from choosing the deeper sedation option over conscious sedation on the day of the procedure.
Read the KITV.com report about Hawaii colonoscopy.