Texas House Bill HB1832

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to disclosures regarding the provision of services by certain health care providers in certain health care facilities.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1832 would significantly affect health care facilities and their billing processes. By requiring a written disclosure concerning the participation of facility-based providers in patients' insurance plans, the bill intends to ensure that patients are made aware of potential additional costs associated with services not covered by their insurance. The transparency aimed for in this bill may potentially lead to more informed patients and could alter how facilities manage their billing practices.

Summary

House Bill 1832 aims to enhance transparency regarding the provision of health care services in certain facilities by requiring disclosures from health care providers. The bill modifies the definition of facility-based providers and mandates that health care facilities create and enforce written policies related to billing practices. This initiative seeks to provide consumers with clear and accessible information about the costs they might incur when receiving medical services, particularly regarding the various providers they may encounter during their treatment.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the specific requirements imposed by HB 1832, particularly regarding how realistic it is for facilities to comply with these mandates. Critics might argue that the bill could place an undue burden on health care providers, particularly smaller facilities with limited resources. On the other hand, proponents will likely argue that greater transparency is vital for patient empowerment and informed consent, emphasizing that patients should be aware of all potential costs associated with their care.