Texas House Bill HB3933

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to consumer protections against billing and limitations on information reported by consumer reporting agencies.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3933 could significantly influence Texas state laws relating to consumer rights and health care billing practices. By prohibiting surprises in billing and ensuring that patients are not financially burdened by excessive charges from out-of-network emergency care providers, the bill addresses the widespread concern of unexpected medical expenses. Moreover, this bill is expected to foster a more equitable health care environment, promoting transparency between insurers and health care providers, and ensuring that patients are protected against unfair billing practices.

Summary

House Bill 3933 is focused on enhancing consumer protections against surprise billing practices in Texas. This legislation aims to limit the circumstances under which consumer reporting agencies can report certain billing information. Specifically, it addresses the issue of surprise billing by disallowing non-network providers from charging patients amounts that exceed their financial responsibility under their health care plan, including applicable copayments, coinsurances, or deductibles. The bill also requires managed care plans to provide coverage for emergency care provided by non-network physicians or facilities, establishing a framework for how these claims should be reimbursed.

Contention

Despite its intention to protect consumers, HB 3933 has the potential to create contention among stakeholders in the health care sector. Concerns have been raised regarding how this bill might impact out-of-network providers and insurers, as it could limit their ability to negotiate reimbursement rates. Furthermore, some healthcare industry representatives express apprehension that stringent regulations on billing may disrupt their operational capabilities and profitability. Balancing the need for consumer protection with the realities of health care service provision remains a crucial point of discussion in legislative circles.