Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3191

Introduced
4/3/26  

Caption

Provides that for purposes of all civil actions, the fair and reasonable charge for certain medical and dental services is the amount billed by the licensed healthcare provider.

Impact

The implications of S3191 extend to all civil actions involving claims for injury or wrongful death, particularly those related to medical, dental, or professional malpractice. By stipulating that only the billed amount is admissible as evidence regarding healthcare service charges, the bill aims to prevent situations in which settlements or operations of personal insurance influence the perception of what constitutes a 'fair and reasonable' charge. This could significantly affect how courts address medical expenses, allowing juries to make determinations based on the actual billed amounts rather than potentially lower negotiated rates or payments that do not reflect the provider's charges.

Summary

Bill S3191 proposes that in all civil actions, the fair and reasonable charge for specific medical and dental services will be based solely on the amount billed by the licensed healthcare provider. This bill is aimed at simplifying the adjudication of cases involving medical expenses by establishing a clear standard that relies directly on the provider’s billed rates, rather than what insurers or other third parties pay for these services. This legislative measure seeks to facilitate a more transparent and straightforward handling of medical cost evidence in trials and other dispute resolutions.

Contention

Notably, the bill could generate contention related to the balance between patient compensation and insurer obligations. Critics might argue that establishing the billed rates as the sole reference point for medical charges could lead to inflated costs presented in civil cases, thereby potentially disadvantaging defendants in malpractice suits. Proponents, on the other hand, would likely argue that this approach ensures that medical providers are adequately compensated for their services, regardless of third-party negotiations or discounts, thereby protecting their financial interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5912

Provides for fair and reasonable charges for certain medical and health care services in civil actions.

RI H5256

Provides for equal pay for healthcare providers.

RI H6353

Authorizes a physician practice to charge a practice support contribution; provided that, the amount does not exceed $120 per year, per patient, enrolled in a healthcare insurance plan, (excluding Medicaid and traditional Medicare).

RI S0305

Establishes the right of a medical practitioner, healthcare institution, or healthcare payer not to participate in or pay for any medical procedure or service this violates their conscience.

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 S0874

Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.

RI H5078

Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.

RI H5862

Requires insurance companies to prove that a healthcare service or procedure is not medically necessary.

RI H5774

Establishes Medicaid fee-for-service reimbursement rates set by the general assembly as the rate floor for Medicaid managed care by home care, home nursing care and hospice providers licensed by the DOH and continue the EEOHH.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.