Texas House Bill HB3773

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/7/23

Caption

Relating to claims submitted and requests for verification made by a physician or health care provider to certain health benefit plan issuers and administrators.

Impact

The implications of HB 3773 are significant as it aims to amend multiple sections of the Texas Insurance Code. By enforcing the acceptance of clinical records, the bill addresses common frustrations healthcare providers face while dealing with insurance claims. It creates a more standardized approach to how claims related to healthcare services are processed, potentially reducing the number of disputes over claim denials based on missing or unaccepted documentation. This can improve the overall workflow between healthcare providers and insurers, ultimately benefiting patients through a more responsive healthcare system.

Summary

House Bill 3773 seeks to establish clearer processes for healthcare providers regarding claims submitted to health benefit plan issuers and administrators. Specifically, the bill mandates that health maintenance organizations and insurers must accept relevant clinical records submitted by treating physicians or providers either with the claim or at a subsequent time. This requirement aims to streamline the claims process, ensuring that healthcare providers can efficiently submit necessary documentation related to patient care, which can significantly affect payment timelines and administrative burdens.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 3773 appears to be generally favorable among healthcare providers who advocate for simplified claim processes. Supporters highlight that the bill will enhance the ability of physicians to provide evidence for claims, making it more difficult for insurers to deny claims outright on technicalities. However, concerns regarding potential loopholes that could arise from the changes have also been noted, creating a mixed sentiment among different stakeholders in the healthcare sector.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the balance between protecting the interests of healthcare providers and ensuring that insurers can manage risk and maintain cost-efficiency. Some critics are concerned that mandating the acceptance of clinical records might lead to increased costs for insurers, which could ultimately be passed on to consumers in the form of higher premiums. Additionally, discussions in committee meetings indicate that there may be apprehensions regarding the practical implementation of these changes and the operational adjustments required for insurance companies to comply with the new regulations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Insurance Code

• Chapter 843. Health Maintenance Organizations
  • Section: 3385
  • Section: 342
  • Section: 351

• Chapter 1301. Preferred Provider Benefit Plans
  • Section: 069
  • Section: 1054
  • Section: 137

• Chapter 1551. Texas Employees Group Benefits Act
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1575. Texas Public School Employees Group Benefits Program
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1579. Texas School Employees Uniform Group Health Coverage
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1601. Uniform Insurance Benefits Act For Employees Of The University Of Texas System And The Texas A&m University System
  • Section: New Section