Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB2435

Introduced
1/19/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Report Pass
2/2/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Report Pass
2/3/23  
Engrossed
2/6/23  

Caption

Hospital price transparency; enforcement, plans of correction.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2435 would amend existing provisions relevant to medical billing and consumer protection. The bill's requirements could lead to an increased accountability among hospitals concerning their pricing, which may also incentivize competitive pricing practices among healthcare providers. Moreover, non-compliance with the stipulated guidelines could result in penalties under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, allowing for enforcement by the Attorney General’s office. This change would enhance consumer rights by providing them with clearer information regarding potential healthcare expenses ahead of time.

Summary

House Bill 2435 aims to enhance hospital price transparency by requiring hospitals to disclose standard charges for all items and services provided. Under the proposed legislation, hospitals must make these standard charges publicly available on their websites in a machine-readable format. Additionally, hospitals are mandated to provide patients with an advance payment estimate for any elective procedures or services, upon request, to promote informed decision-making regarding healthcare costs. This increase in transparency is intended to empower consumers and facilitate better comparisons of healthcare costs across facilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2435 appears largely supportive, especially among consumer advocacy groups that advocate for increased transparency in healthcare pricing. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards empowering patients, enabling them to make more informed choices. However, there are concerns from some hospital administrators about the logistics and potential financial burdens associated with compliance. The balance of these perspectives reflects a broader dialogue about the role of transparency in healthcare and the need for regulations that protect patients while maintaining the operational viability of healthcare facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 2435 include concerns over the practical implications of enforcing price transparency. Hospital representatives have voiced worries that requiring them to publish comprehensive pricing information could expose them to competitive disadvantages, while others argue that such transparency might lead to more affordable healthcare options for patients. Critics question whether the bill goes far enough in ensuring affordable access to healthcare services, while proponents believe it represents a key advancement in consumer rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB481

Hospitals; price transparency.

VA HB2427

Hospital price transparency; private right of action, patient payment disputes.

VA HB2237

Hospital price transparency; private right of action, patient payment disputes.

VA HB1059

Hospital price transparency; private right of action, patient payment disputes, noncompliance.

VA S1984

Requires DOH to evaluate hospital compliance with federal hospital price transparency requirements.

VA HB2825

Enacting consumer protection related to hospital price transparency act.

VA HB2246

Enacting the consumer protection related to hospital price transparency act.

VA SB0232

HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY

VA HB4839

Hospital and ASC Price Transparency Act of 2023

VA AB338

Price transparency in hospitals and providing a penalty. (FE)

Similar Bills

VA HB2497

Electric vehicle battery suppliers; certification, penalty.

VA HB2515

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, mandatory fees or surcharges disclosure.

VA SB1212

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, mandatory fees or surcharges disclosure.

VA HB2195

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; mold remediation and inspections, report.

VA SB1376

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; food labeling.

VA HB2355

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; professional mold remediators, mold remediation certification.

VA SB754

Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, etc., reproductive or sexual health information.

VA HB1911

Veterans' Services Protection Act; created, prohibited practices, penalty.