Revises provisions relating to billing for health care. (BDR 40-785)
Impact
The implementation of AB282 would bring significant changes to healthcare billing practices within the state. By formalizing a process for patients to report and resolve billing discrepancies, the bill empowers consumers and enhances accountability among healthcare providers. Additionally, the introduction of administrative fines—up to $5,000 for non-compliance in refund issuance—serves as a deterrent against poor billing practices. These measures can potentially lead to a more transparent and fair billing environment in healthcare, fostering trust between patients and providers.
Summary
Assembly Bill No. 282, spearheaded by Assemblymember Orentlicher, focuses on enhancing consumer protections regarding healthcare billing. The bill mandates that medical facilities and billing entities must address overcharge complaints from patients. Upon receiving notice of an alleged overcharge, these entities are required to conduct an investigation and respond to the patient within 30 days. Notably, the bill stipulates that if an overpayment is confirmed, the entity must issue a refund to the patient within 60 days. This practice aims to safeguard patients against erroneous billing and ensure timely reimbursement where applicable.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its potential to improve patient rights and billing accuracy, there may be concerns raised by providers regarding the compliance demands it imposes. Some healthcare organizations may perceive the new regulations as burdensome, particularly the requirement to investigate claims within a short timeframe. There might also be apprehensions about the financial implications of potential fines for non-compliance. However, supporters argue that failing to address these issues leads to unjustified financial burden on patients and firms, making the bill a necessary reform in consumer protection.
An Act Concerning Revisions To The Connecticut Antitrust Act And Discovery Conducted By The Attorney General In Whistle-blower And False Claims Actions.
Enacts the "New York city small business rent stabilization act" instituting a commercial rent control system in the city of New York; creates the commercial rent guidelines board.
Enacts the "New York city small business rent stabilization act" instituting a commercial rent control system in the city of New York; creates the commercial rent guidelines board.
Providing for cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.
Updates notice requirements for actions alleging consumer fraud violations and adds indirect purchasers as parties who can receive damages for antitrust violations.