Texas House Bill HB3867

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to unconscionable prices charged by certain health care facilities for medical care.

Impact

The bill amends the Business and Commerce Code by adding provisions that define emergency care and establish thresholds for acceptable pricing. By categorizing prices exceeding 150 percent of the average charge for similar care as 'unconscionable,' it grants the consumer protection division the authority to intervene. However, it does restrict the division's ability to act unless specific pricing thresholds are breached, which may limit the number of claims brought forth against emergency facilities. This legislative change could lead to enhanced scrutiny of healthcare pricing, promoting fairness and transparency in the emergency healthcare market.

Summary

House Bill 3867 addresses the issue of unconscionable pricing in healthcare facilities for medical services, specifically within emergency care contexts. The bill aims to protect consumers by regulating prices that emergency facilities may charge, ensuring that they do not exploit individuals who are in vulnerable and urgent medical situations. It establishes criteria for what constitutes 'unconscionable pricing' and introduces mechanisms for accountability among health care providers, particularly hospitals and emergency medical service facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'unconscionable prices' and the implications of the pricing thresholds proposed in the bill. Critics may argue that by setting a specific percentage, the bill might inadvertently allow for significant profits to remain unchallenged if they fall under the stipulated threshold. Additionally, as the bill does not create a private cause of action for consumers, there may be concerns about the effectiveness of enforcement and whether patients will truly benefit from the protections intended by the legislation. Overall, while the bill seeks to curb abusive pricing practices, the effectiveness of its implementation and the potential for reform in healthcare delivery remain subjects for debate.