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 S08680 could significantly modify the landscape of healthcare billing practices in New York. By limiting the charging of facility fees associated with telehealth, the bill intends to protect patients from unexpected costs and increase accessibility to health services without additional financial burdens. This change may reduce the hesitance of patients to utilize telehealth services, potentially broadening their adoption, especially in scenarios where in-person visits pose inconveniences or risks.
Summary
S08680 is a bill introduced to amend the public health law regarding the regulation of facility fees for telehealth services. It specifies that hospitals and healthcare providers cannot bill patients for facility fees for services rendered through telehealth unless the patient has been informed prior to service that a fee would apply. The bill requires advance written notification to patients, including details about the facility fee, how it might be covered by their insurance, and financial assistance for those uninsured. This measure aims to enhance transparency in healthcare billing practices, particularly for telehealth services delivered from distant sites.
Contention
There have been discussions regarding the potential impact of S08680 on healthcare providers and hospital systems. Supporters argue that the bill enhances patient rights and promotes fair billing practices. However, opponents may express concerns that the prohibition of facility fees could financially impact healthcare institutions, especially those relying on these fees for operational costs. Some providers may feel restricted by the requirement to notify patients of fees, presenting logistical challenges in their patient communication strategies and possibly leading to financial strains in their telehealth 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.