Bill > H1101

This bill introduces two key provisions to protect patients from unexpected healthcare costs. First, it requires healthcare practitioners to provide written notice to patients when referring them to out-of-network providers for non-emergency services, clearly explaining that the services will be on an out-of-network basis and may result in additional cost-sharing responsibilities. Practitioners must document this notice in the patient's medical record and can verify a provider's network status through online directories, direct contact with the provider, or the patient's health insurer. Failure to provide this notice may result in disciplinary action against the healthcare practitioner. Second, the bill mandates that health insurers apply payments for services from non-preferred providers toward the patient's deductible and out-of-pocket maximum under specific conditions: the patient must request this application, the service must be covered under their policy, and the non-preferred provider's charge must be equal to or less than either the preferred provider network's average charge or the statewide average charge for that service, as reported on the Florida Health Price Finder website. These provisions aim to increase transparency and reduce unexpected healthcare expenses for patients. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1101