Provides that no facility fee shall be charged for services when a hospital-based facility is a distant site for health care services delivered by telehealth unless the service is provided by a health care provider not authorized to bill a professional fee separately for the service.
Impact
The implementation of A09182 is poised to enhance patient protections by ensuring that individuals are not billed for facility fees that are not covered by their insurance, unless prior notification is provided. This requirement for written notice aims to help patients better understand any potential costs associated with telehealth visits. By mandating that healthcare providers inform patients of facility fees well in advance, the bill seeks to foster a more transparent healthcare environment in New York.
Summary
Bill A09182 proposes amendments to the public health law that will regulate the billing of facility fees for telehealth services in New York. Specifically, the bill delineates that no facility fee shall be charged when services are provided by a hospital-based facility acting as a distant site for telehealth services. This measure aims to clarify billing practices and protect patients from unexpected charges when receiving telehealth services. Additionally, the legislation seeks to regulate how healthcare providers notify patients regarding facility fees, hence ensuring greater transparency.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding A09182 may arise from the perspectives of healthcare providers and insurers. Some stakeholders may argue that the notification requirements impose additional administrative burdens on providers and might lead to unintended financial complications within healthcare systems. Conversely, advocates for patient protection may argue that the bill is essential to curbing surprise billing practices in telehealth, emphasizing the need for patients to be fully informed about costs before receiving services.
Same As
Provides that no facility fee shall be charged for services when a hospital-based facility is a distant site for health care services delivered by telehealth unless the service is provided by a health care provider not authorized to bill a professional fee separately for the service.
Provides that no facility fee shall be charged for services when a hospital-based facility is a distant site for health care services delivered by telehealth unless the service is provided by a health care provider not authorized to bill a professional fee separately for the service.
Prohibits hospitals, health systems, and health care providers from charging facility fees that are not covered by the patient's health insurance carrier.
Facility fees for nonemergency services provided at provider-based clinics prohibited, facility fees for certain health care services prohibited, and report required.
Relating to the provision of health care services by a freestanding emergency medical care facility and the collection of fees for providing those services.
Relating to the provision of health care services by a freestanding emergency medical care facility and the collection of fees for providing those services.
Addresses non-covered dental services by requiring all policies providing coverage of and all contracts for dental services issued to include a disclosure stating that a participating provider may charge their normal fee for services that are not covered; requires a cost estimate to be provided.