Texas House Bill HB3870

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to required disclosures by certain health care facilities.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3870 will likely enhance consumers' awareness regarding their healthcare options, particularly concerning the potential costs associated with physician services that are provided within the context of surgical facilities. This act is expected to hold healthcare facilities accountable for providing critical information that can influence a consumer's decisions regarding where to seek care.

Summary

House Bill 3870 mandates specific disclosure requirements for certain healthcare facilities in Texas, namely ambulatory surgical centers and hospitals. The bill aims to improve transparency for consumers by enforcing that these facilities post important information on their websites. This could include listings of health benefit plans they participate in and a statement clarifying that physician services may not be included in the facility's billed charges, potentially leading to additional billing for the patient once they receive services from a physician in the facility.

Contention

There may be contention regarding the effectiveness of this transparency legislation. Supporters may argue that it empowers consumers and fosters informed decisions, while opponents may express concern about the burden it places on healthcare facilities to maintain updated disclosures and whether these notifications are actually effective in assisting consumers.