5-D. Mandated offer of coverage for certain mental illnesses. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 5-C, coverage for medical treatment for mental illnesses listed in paragraph A by all group contracts is subject to this subsection.

A. All group contracts must make available coverage providing, at a minimum, benefits according to paragraph B, subparagraph (1) for a person receiving medical treatment for any of the following mental illnesses diagnosed by a licensed allopathic or osteopathic physician or a licensed psychologist who is trained and has received a doctorate in psychology specializing in the evaluation and treatment of human behavior mental illness:

(1) Schizophrenia;

(2) Bipolar disorder;

(3) Pervasive developmental disorder, or autism;

(4) Paranoia;

(5) Panic disorder;

(6) Obsessive-compulsive disorder; or

(7) Major depressive disorder.

B. All group policies, contracts and certificates executed, delivered, issued for delivery, continued or renewed in this State on or after July 1, 1996 must make available coverage providing benefits that meet the requirements of this paragraph. For purposes of this paragraph, all contracts are deemed renewed no later than the next yearly anniversary of the contract date.

(1) The offer of coverage must provide benefits for the treatment and diagnosis of mental illnesses under terms and conditions that are no less extensive than the benefits provided for medical treatment for physical illnesses.

(2) At the request of a reimbursing insurer, a provider of medical treatment for mental illness shall furnish data substantiating that initial or continued treatment is medically necessary and appropriate health care. When making the determination of whether