The bill amends existing laws regarding the assignment of benefits to healthcare providers, specifically requiring consent from enrollees for such assignments and mandating that enrollees be notified of these assignments. It revises the definition of "health benefit plan" to exclude dental-only plans while adding provisions for dental-only plans that require annual consent for assignment of benefits. Additionally, healthcare providers must inform enrollees about their status as non-participating providers and the potential costs associated with services before providing care.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that if a healthcare provider submits a claim with an assignment of benefits, the payment must be directed to the provider rather than the enrollee. It also outlines the responsibilities of payors in the event of incorrect payments and includes specific requirements for dental-only plans, such as providing detailed notices to enrollees about costs and payment terms. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
SB 548: 23-99-1301(3)