Connecticut Senate Bill SB00683

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/26/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/17/21
• Report Pass: 5/18/21
• Engrossed: 6/2/21
• Report Pass: 6/3/21
• Passed: 6/7/21
• Chaptered: 6/23/21
• Enrolled: 6/24/21
• Passed: 7/7/21

Caption

An Act Concerning Hospital Billing And Collection Efforts By Hospitals And Collection Agencies.

Impact

The legislation has been described as a significant step towards more ethical billing practices within the healthcare system. By capping hospital charges for uninsured patients, it not only seeks to alleviate the financial burden on individuals but also serves to enhance transparency in hospital billing practices. This reform is expected to foster better communication between healthcare providers and patients regarding their financial responsibilities and right to understand services and costs associated with their care.

Summary

Senate Bill 683, known as An Act Concerning Hospital Billing And Collection Efforts By Hospitals And Collection Agencies, aims to reform billing and collection practices in hospitals across the state. The bill specifically addresses the limitations on how hospitals and affiliated entities can collect payments from uninsured patients, ensuring that they cannot charge more than their costs for services rendered. Effective from October 1, 2022, this legislation intends to provide financial protections for vulnerable populations who may find themselves in overwhelming debt due to medical bills.

Sentiment

Support for SB 683 is strong among consumer advocates and many healthcare professionals who view it as a necessary measure to protect patients from aggressive debt collection practices and prevent undue financial hardship. However, there are concerns voiced by some hospitals and healthcare systems that this may restrict their revenue streams significantly, putting pressure on their operational budgets which could affect service delivery in the long term.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill's implications involve debates on how it might affect hospital operations and patient care priorities. Some stakeholders argue that while safeguarding patients from exorbitant bills is paramount, the amendments could lead to reduced funding for essential services if hospitals struggle to recoup costs. Discussions have centered around finding a balance between patient protections and the financial viability of healthcare institutions, particularly as the pandemic has heightened scrutiny on healthcare economics.