Texas House Bill HB4197

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prohibition or denial for the use of certain types of health benefit plans or payment methods.

Impact

The proposed legislation significantly impacts healthcare providers and carriers in how they interact with patients regarding payment options. By mandating that providers cannot require patients to use a third-party plan if they wish to pay in cash or through an alternative payment method, it aims to promote greater flexibility and accessibility in healthcare transactions. As a result, it could lead to an increase in patients opting to utilize cash payments or reference-based plans, potentially transforming payment practices across the healthcare sector.

Summary

House Bill 4197 aims to address the prohibitions and denials related to the use of specific health benefit plans and payment methods within the healthcare system. Specifically, the bill outlines that health care providers must not discriminate against or deny services to patients based on their choice of payment, whether it be cash, a reference-based health plan, or another means of payment. This poses to enhance patient autonomy by allowing them to utilize various forms of payment without fear of being denied care.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill has been met with some contention. Critics may raise concerns regarding the financial implications for healthcare providers, who might rely heavily on traditional payment models and third-party insurers. There may also be discussions around how this bill could affect overall healthcare costs and the insurance industry, especially if cash-based services gain traction. Balancing patient rights with the interests of healthcare providers and insurance companies remains a pivotal issue as this bill progresses.