Provides relative to surprise billing (Item #37) (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Impact
If enacted, HB 61 will amend existing Louisiana state law regarding billing practices by healthcare providers. The new regulations will specifically prevent facility-based physicians from charging patients more than the amount accepted by contracted providers for similar services, or 135% of the Medicare reimbursement rate, whichever is higher. This change aims to ensure that health care costs are predictable and manageable for patients, protecting them from unexpected financial burdens associated with noncontracted services.
Summary
House Bill 61 aims to address the issue of surprise billing in the healthcare system by prohibiting noncontracted facility-based physicians from billing patients beyond specified limits. The bill defines 'surprise billing' as the situation in which an insured individual receives services from a facility that is contracted with their health insurance, but the physician providing those services is not contracted. This often leaves patients facing unexpected and high costs for medical services, which the bill seeks to eliminate.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill appears to be positive among consumer advocacy groups and many legislators who view it as a necessary safeguard for patients against exploitative billing practices. The bill's proponents argue that it enhances transparency in healthcare expenses and provides stronger consumer protections, while opponents may raise concerns about the potential impacts on physician compensation and the broader healthcare marketplace.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 61 include the balance it strikes between protecting consumers and ensuring fair reimbursement for healthcare providers. Some healthcare professionals worry that limiting billing practices could undermine their ability to recover costs for services rendered, especially in emergency situations where contracted rates may not reflect the complexity of care provided. This highlights an ongoing debate about the sustainability of healthcare provider compensation in a regulated billing environment.
Creates a protective legal shield for healthcare providers, precluding any civil/criminal action by other states/persons against healthcare providers involving persons seeking access to transgender and reproductive healthcare services provided in RI.
Mandates cosmetic medical procedures be performed by a physician, PA, APRN, or delegated to a qualified non-physician, non-PA or non-APRN under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse.