New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04012

Introduced
1/31/25  
Refer
1/31/25  

Caption

Requires notification to insureds that an out-of-network physician may be used in their procedure, test or surgery and such physician's services shall not be covered by their insurance policy; provides such services must be covered if the insured person does not receive notification prior to such services or procedure.

Summary

Bill S04012 amends the New York insurance law to require that insured individuals receive prior notification when an out-of-network physician may be involved in their medical procedures, tests, or surgeries. This notification must come from the billing entity and inform the insured that the services of an out-of-network physician will not be covered by their insurance policy. Furthermore, if the insured does not receive this notification before the service is rendered, their insurance policy will cover the costs associated with the out-of-network physician's services.

Impact

The bill impacts state insurance laws by mandating clearer communication between billing entities and insured individuals regarding the use of out-of-network physicians. It aims to protect consumers from unexpected medical bills by ensuring they are informed about potential out-of-network charges before receiving care. This could lead to changes in how insurance companies and healthcare providers manage notifications and billing processes, potentially increasing transparency in healthcare costs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S04012 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a common concern among consumers regarding unexpected medical expenses due to out-of-network services. Discussions indicate a recognition of the need for better communication in the healthcare system, although specific voting history and committee discussions are not available to gauge the level of bipartisan support or opposition.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from healthcare providers and insurance companies regarding the implementation of the notification requirement. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could lead to increased administrative burdens or that it may not fully address the complexities of out-of-network billing. However, specific opposing views or concerns from particular parties are not documented in the provided context.

Companion Bills

NY A03488

Same As Requires notification to insureds that an out-of-network physician may be used in their procedure, test or surgery and such physician's services shall not be covered by their insurance policy; provides such services must be covered if the insured person does not receive notification prior to such services or procedure.

Previously Filed As

NY A02663

Requires notification to insureds that an out-of-network physician may be used in their procedure, test or surgery and such physician's services shall not be covered by their insurance policy; such services must be covered if the insured person does not receive notification prior to such services or procedure.

NY A03488

Requires notification to insureds that an out-of-network physician may be used in their procedure, test or surgery and such physician's services shall not be covered by their insurance policy; provides such services must be covered if the insured person does not receive notification prior to such services or procedure.

NY S2476

Provides that routine foot care services covered under certain insurance policies include coverage of services provided by podiatric physicians.

NY SB00454

An Act Requiring Health Insurers To Allow A Covered Person To Terminate Coverage And Procure Alternate Health Insurance Without Penalty When Such Covered Person's Health Care Providers Are Designated Out-of-network.

NY S05313

Addresses non-covered dental services by requiring all policies providing coverage of and all contracts for dental services issued to include a disclosure stating that a participating provider may charge their normal fee for services that are not covered; requires a cost estimate to be provided.

NY A03687

Addresses non-covered dental services by requiring all policies providing coverage of and all contracts for dental services issued to include a disclosure stating that a participating provider may charge their normal fee for services that are not covered; requires a cost estimate to be provided.

NY H8309

Requires that every insurer providing health coverage insurance provide every physician or physician group with a complete fee schedule seeing for the maximum allowable reimbursement for each covered service.

NY A4270

Requires Medicaid and health insurance network contracts to provide participating health care providers with certain notifications.

NY A1018

Requires health insurance carriers to provide adequate network of physicians.

NY HB1623

In regulation of insurers and related persons generally, providing for notification requirements for older adult health insurance policies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.