SB 1289
An Act providing for patient access to clear health care information; and requiring plain-language summaries of coverage, prior authorization and appeal rights.
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This act, the Patient Right-to-Understand Act, aims to improve patient access to clear health care information by requiring health care entities to provide plain-language summaries of coverage details, prior authorization processes, and appeal rights. It also mandates the disclosure of available care and payment options, such as cash-pay pricing and health savings accounts, to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare. The goal is to empower patients and increase transparency within the healthcare system.
Key provisions
- Health care entities must provide plain-language summaries of coverage basics, including deductibles and copayments.
- Entities must outline prior authorization requirements and appeal processes in a simplified format.
- The act mandates disclosure of expected out-of-pocket costs for non-emergency services.
- Health care entities must distinguish between what is covered by insurance and decisions made solely between a patient and their healthcare provider.
- Entities must provide information on legally available care and payment options, such as cash-pay pricing and health savings accounts.
- Plain-language summaries must be provided electronically upon enrollment and patient request.
- Summaries must be concise, no more than two pages, and use standardized formatting.
- Failure to comply with the act may restrict debt collection efforts related to disputed care.
Who is affected
- Patients
- Health Insurers
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours