New Jersey Assembly Bill A3246

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22
• Report Pass: 12/11/23

Caption

Prohibits carrier from precluding dentist from billing covered person under certain circumstances.

Impact

The enactment of A3246 is expected to affect dental contracts across New Jersey. Specifically, it seeks to enhance consumer protections by ensuring that patients are aware of potential out-of-pocket expenses associated with dental care services. This bill provides a framework in which participating dentists must clearly communicate any discrepancies between the services offered and the coverage provided by the insurance carrier, thereby addressing concerns over unexpected billing practices and promoting honesty in the dentist-patient relationship.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3246 aims to amend current dental insurance policies by prohibiting carriers from preventing participating dentists from billing covered individuals under specific circumstances. The bill mandates that dentists must inform covered persons before performing services that the insurer may not cover and that the patient will be responsible for payment. This legislation emphasizes the need for financial transparency regarding dental procedures, ensuring patients are well-informed about the costs associated with their care before services are rendered.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding A3246 appears to be largely positive among healthcare advocates and patient rights organizations, who view it as a significant step toward improving patient autonomy and reducing the likelihood of surprise medical debts. While some dental professionals express concerns about how this may affect their practices and billing processes, proponents argue that the legislation is necessary for fostering a more transparent healthcare environment, benefitting patients overall.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns among some dental practitioners regarding the administrative burden this bill may impose. Critics fear that the additional requirements for obtaining patient consent and providing thorough explanations may result in longer appointments and increased costs of service. Additionally, there is apprehension about how these requirements may influence the way dental services are priced or billed, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients if dentists adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.