Medical Exemption From Disconnection of Utilities in Connecticut

Authors

Peter A. Kahn MD, Yale School of Medicine
Krishna R. Daggula MS, Yale New Haven Health System
Wei Teng PhD, Yale School of Medicine
Richard C. Hintz MS, Yale New Haven Health System
Gretchen Berland MD, Yale School of Medicine

Document Type

Article

Abstract

For patients with health conditions that require electricity for device use or prescription refrigeration, public utilities offer protection from disconnection with physician certification, with policies varying by state. In Connecticut, utilities are prohibited from disconnecting service to those with a life-threatening illness as certified by a physician, with definition of “life-threatening” left to the physician’s judgment. Although the association between energy insecurity and health outcomes has been studied in children, less is known about the association in adults with more complex health needs. We examined trends in medical exemptions from utility disconnection in Connecticut and the characteristics and health Community Alliance for Research & Engagement use of adults applying for exemptions in a large primary Community Alliance for Research & Engagement practice.

Publication Status

Published

ISSN

1538-3598

Category Tags

Energy; Healthcare; Law, Policy, and Decision-Making; Social Services

New Haven Neighborhood

New Haven (All)

Recommended Citation

Kahn PA, Daggula KR, Teng W, Hintz RC, Berland G. Medical Exemption From Disconnection of Utilities in Connecticut. JAMA. 2020;323(12):1189–1190. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.0542