Texas House Bill HB3195

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/1/23
• Out of House Committee: 5/1/23
• Voted on by House: 5/10/23

Caption

Relating to conduct of insurers providing preferred provider benefit plans with respect to physician and health care provider contracts and claims.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3195 is expected to have significant effects on state insurance laws, specifically enhancing protections for healthcare providers. By establishing strict boundaries against retaliatory practices, the bill aims to mitigate the adverse impacts that insurers’ actions could have on healthcare providers’ ability to navigate the complex claims process. This legislation encourages a more transparent and fair interaction between insurers and providers, which could enhance the overall quality of patient care by ensuring that healthcare providers feel safe in advocating for fair treatment without fear of retribution.

Summary

House Bill 3195 establishes guidelines to govern the conduct of insurers regarding preferred provider benefit plans, particularly relating to physician and healthcare provider contracts and claims. This legislation primarily seeks to prevent retaliatory actions against healthcare providers during the contract renewal period, which could stem from unrelated disputes that arise in the claims process. Insurers are explicitly prohibited from engaging in retaliation that may include termination of contracts or other punitive actions, aiming to foster a more stable and fair environment for healthcare providers in Texas.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 3195 appears largely positive among healthcare provider groups and allies who advocate for stronger protections against insurer retaliation. Supporters argue that this bill is a necessary step to preserve the integrity of the healthcare system in Texas and support patient access to a broader range of healthcare services. However, there are concerns among some stakeholder groups about the potential implications for insurers and the claims process, where adjustments may necessitate operational changes that could impact efficiency and costs in the long run.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between insurer operations and the need for robust protection for healthcare providers. Proponents of HB 3195 argue that it safeguards against unfair practices that can jeopardize healthcare provision and provider stability, while opponents may question if the regulations could introduce inefficiencies into the insurance claims process. The bill’s provisions around audits and appeals for preferred provider claims are designed to ensure equitable treatment, yet the potential for increased administrative burdens on insurers is a recurring concern in discussions leading up to its passage.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Insurance Code

• Chapter 1301. Preferred Provider Benefit Plans
  • Section: 066
  • Section: 103
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 132
  • Section: 1051
  • Section: 1052
  • Section: 066
  • Section: 103
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 132