Bill > SB1376

This bill addresses "surprise" or unexpected ambulance billing in Tennessee by establishing new protections for patients who receive out-of-network ambulance services during medical emergencies. Starting July 1, 2025, the bill prohibits out-of-network ambulance service providers from "balance billing" (charging patients the difference between what their insurance covers and the total cost of the service) for emergency ambulance transportation. Instead, patients will only be responsible for paying the lowest of three possible amounts: their plan's in-network cost-sharing amount, the ambulance provider's billed charges, or 325% of the Medicare rate for that service in the same geographic area. Health insurers must treat these payments the same as in-network service payments, applying them toward the patient's deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. The bill also specifically defines key terms like "emergency medical condition" and prevents ambulance service organizations from requiring patients to sign waivers that would circumvent these protections. This legislation aims to protect patients from unexpected and potentially financially devastating medical bills during emergency situations.