To reduce inequities in access to medical procedures
Impact
If enacted, H4338 will amend Section 16 of Chapter 176O of the General Laws, directly impacting insurance reimbursement policies. The bill prohibits any reductions in payment for specific medical services provided by participating providers if other services are billed on the same day. This change is expected to create a more equitable healthcare payment structure, thereby promoting better access to healthcare services for patients requiring multiple procedures or services in a single visit.
Summary
House Bill H4338 aims to address inequities in access to medical procedures by amending existing provisions in the General Laws. Specifically, the bill seeks to prohibit health carriers from reducing payments for evaluation and management services when providers also bill for other health services on the same day. This measure is intended to ensure that providers are fairly reimbursed for all services rendered, which supporters argue will increase access to necessary medical care for patients.
Contention
While proponents argue that the bill will reduce inequities in healthcare access, there may be concerns from insurance companies regarding the long-term financial implications of such changes. Critics may fear that the bill could lead to increased premiums or challenges in managing healthcare costs. Balancing equitable access while ensuring sustainable insurance practices is likely to be a point of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders in the healthcare system.