Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8381

Introduced
4/1/26  

Caption

Provides that no contract between a dental plan or other healthcare entity and a dentist requires the dentist to accept exclusively by virtual credit cards.

Impact

This legislation is poised to enhance the financial and operational conditions for dentists across the state by ensuring that they are not coerced into accepting payment methods that could diminish their earnings due to additional fees. By allowing for alternative payment methods, such as electronic funds transfers or paper checks, H8381 aims to create a fairer marketplace for dental services while providing transparency regarding payment options. This assurance improves dental service delivery as it disallows the assessment of fees just to release payments.

Summary

House Bill H8381, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, seeks to amend existing insurance laws by prohibiting contracts between dental plans or other healthcare entities and dentists that mandate exclusive payment through certain methods, specifically those that incur fees for the dentist. The bill emphasizes the right of dentists to receive payment without being constrained to utilize virtual credit cards or similar payment structures that involve charges for accessing their payments, fostering a more flexible payment environment for dental services.

Contention

The bill's language indicates it has been structured to permit dental plans some leeway in how they manage payment methodologies, provided they offer clear guidance to dentists on all available options. Notable points of contention could arise around how this impacts existing contracts between dental entities and healthcare providers, particularly regarding any perceived monetary pressures that might arise from switching payment systems. A key debate could revolve around the implications for digital payment platforms and the overall costs incurred by dental plans or healthcare entities if they must absorb these fees.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0905

Prohibits dental insurers from refusing to honor directions to pay from insured, modifying benefits to be paid. Requires providers to accept payment by virtual credit card as unfair claims practices.

RI H6155

Prohibits dental insurers from refusing to honor directions to pay from insured, modifying benefits to be paid. Requires providers to accept payment by virtual credit card as unfair claims practices.

RI S0463

Requires each healthcare entity/network plan to compile/report to health insurance commissioner a summary of how the healthcare entity/network plan requires its contracted providers to submit claims for in-network outpatient behavioral health services.

RI H5863

Requires each healthcare entity/network plan to compile/report to health insurance commissioner a summary of how the healthcare entity/network plan requires its contracted providers to submit claims for in-network outpatient behavioral health services.

RI H6240

Allows for the expansion of limited registrations of dentists and dental hygienists.

RI H5628

Mandates all health insurance contracts, plans, or policies provide the same reimbursement to independent healthcare facilities as that of hospital affiliated facilities where the same healthcare service is provided.

RI S0846

Prohibits healthcare providers and health plans from denying the payment of a medical bill, solely because the bill may have arisen from a third-party claim.

RI H5561

Prohibits healthcare providers and health plans from denying the payment of a medical bill, solely because the bill may have arisen from a third-party claim.

RI S0695

Recognizes the program run by the Rhode Island Medical Society or comparable program for physicians, physician assistants, dentists, and podiatrists, to address burnout, substance abuse, and mental and physical health issues.

RI H6036

Recognizes the program run by the Rhode Island Medical Society or comparable program for physicians, physician assistants, dentists, and podiatrists, to address burnout, substance abuse, and mental and physical health issues.

Similar Bills

LA HB1121

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RI H7030

Creates the healthcare worker platform act that requires platforms offering healthcare shifts to register with the Rhode Island department of health while exempting them from being classified as nursing service agencies.

AR HB1299

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RI H7941

Requires insurers to pay electronic claims for healthcare coverage within 14 calendar days of receipt. Permits healthcare providers to dispute claim denials within 60 days and empowers the secretary of EOHHS to establish penalties for violations.

AR HB1301

To Amend The Prior Authorization Transparency Act.

RI H8310

Amends the timelines related to healthcare provider credentialing.

MA S1632

Providing safeguards for home healthcare workers

MA H2364

Providing safeguards for home healthcare workers