Bill > S0846

This bill prohibits healthcare providers and health plans from denying payment of a medical bill solely because the bill may have arisen from a third-party claim or incident, with the exception of workers' compensation claims. The legislation amends several sections of Rhode Island's General Laws related to medical licensure, insurance, and healthcare entities to include this new provision. Specifically, the bill adds language to the definitions of unprofessional conduct for medical providers and updates claim processing requirements for various types of health plans, including insurance companies, nonprofit hospital service corporations, and health maintenance organizations. The new rule prevents health insurers from automatically rejecting medical bills that originate from incidents like car accidents or other third-party situations where another party might be responsible for the initial medical expenses. By doing so, the bill aims to ensure that patients and healthcare providers are not unfairly denied payment for legitimate medical services. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://status.rilegislature.gov/