To protect health care consumers from surprise billing
Impact
This legislation significantly affects existing Massachusetts health laws by mandating clear communication about coverage and reimbursement practices. Provider non-compliance can lead to penalties, and consumers find increased protection against unexpected medical bills from out-of-network services. The bill seeks to minimize the confusion surrounding billing by establishing a standard that centers on patient awareness and provider accountability.
Summary
House Bill 1144 aims to protect healthcare consumers in Massachusetts from surprise billing practices, particularly when they receive care from out-of-network providers unknowingly. The bill introduces stringent regulations requiring healthcare providers to inform patients of their insurance network participation prior to scheduled medical services and to adhere to specific notice requirements. If these standards are not met, healthcare providers are restricted to charging the same amount as an in-network provider would, which primarily includes allowable copayments and deductibles.
Contention
While the bill has strong backing from consumer advocacy groups and some lawmakers who emphasize the importance of protecting patients from unexpected charges, it has also sparked debates among healthcare providers and insurers. Some argue that imposing strict regulations on billing practices could disincentivize providers from accepting certain insurances, thus limiting patients' choices. Additionally, concerns about how the bill will influence premiums and the overall cost of healthcare in Massachusetts are prevalent among critics.