Bill > H0475

This bill amends Florida law regarding price transparency for ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and hospitals, requiring them to provide patients with a good faith estimate of medical service charges before non-emergency procedures. The estimate must be provided at least 3 business days prior to the service, include information about facility fees, financial assistance policies, and potential separate billing by healthcare providers. Different penalties are established for hospitals and ASCs who fail to provide timely estimates: hospitals will face a daily fine of $1,000 up to $10,000 per patient, while ambulatory surgical centers will face a daily fine of $250 up to $2,500 per patient. The bill's provisions are contingent upon federal agencies (Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury) issuing a final rule about good faith estimates under the Public Health Services Act. The Agency for Health Care Administration is required to notify the Division of Law Revision once the federal rule is adopted. This legislation aims to improve transparency in healthcare pricing and help patients understand potential costs before receiving medical services.