Bill > HB1431

This bill amends the Fair Patient Billing Act to require hospitals that charge facility fees for outpatient services to develop a transparent policy for informing patients about these additional charges. Specifically, the hospital must create a policy that explains how patients will be notified about potential facility fees, what services and expenses these fees cover, why the fees are being charged, and provide contact information for patients to request more details. A facility fee is an additional charge separate from the professional medical service fee, typically covering the hospital's operational costs. The bill empowers the Attorney General to enforce this new requirement, with the ability to investigate potential violations and impose civil monetary penalties ranging from $500 to $1,000 depending on the nature and pattern of the violation. If repeated violations occur, the Attorney General can even refer the hospital to the Illinois Department of Public Health for potential adverse licensure action, ensuring hospitals prioritize patient transparency about billing practices.

Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1431&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104