New Jersey Assembly Bill A2955

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

"Patient Protection Act"; establishes requirements concerning the transfer and referral of certain patients receiving health care services.

Impact

The legislation is set to impact existing state laws by introducing strict regulations regarding patient transfers. Specifically, healthcare facilities must notify patients' insurance carriers of any planned transfers and provide information about potential out-of-pocket costs. Furthermore, notifications will be required every quarter to document and report transfers and referrals to the Department of Health, which will help in monitoring and regulating these activities. These changes could potentially alleviate confusion and financial surprises inherent in out-of-network healthcare services.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2955, known as the "Patient Protection Act," is designed to enhance transparency and protect consumers in the healthcare system, specifically addressing the transfer of patients to out-of-state healthcare facilities. The bill mandates that healthcare professionals provide critical information to patients before they are referred or transferred out-of-state, ensuring patients understand their rights and the clinical rationale behind their referrals. This requirement aims to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare options and financial responsibilities related to out-of-network services.

Contention

Despite its consumer-centric design, A2955 has raised concerns among some stakeholders regarding its feasibility and practical implications. Critics argue that the notification obligations may be burdensome for healthcare providers and could lead to delays in necessary patient care. Additionally, discussions surrounding the clarity of what constitutes 'clinically appropriate' services within the state might lead to challenges in enforcement. Some opposition also stems from worries about the adequacy of consumer protections, questioning if the bill genuinely addresses the complexities of out-of-state healthcare access.