This bill amends and reenacts R.S. 22:1828(D) and (E) and enacts R.S. 22:1828(F) to enhance protections for healthcare providers regarding claim payments from health insurance issuers. Specifically, it prohibits insurers from imposing monetary reductions in claim payments or terminating provider agreements based solely on the network status of another healthcare provider involved in a patient's care at a licensed healthcare facility. Additionally, the bill clarifies that these provisions cannot be waived by contract, rendering any conflicting contractual clauses void.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that any violations of these provisions will be considered unfair methods of competition and deceptive practices in the insurance business, subjecting violators to penalties under existing insurance regulations. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or, if not signed, after the designated period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB291 Original: 22:1828(D)
HB291 Engrossed: 22:1828(D)
HB291 Enrolled: 22:1828(D)
HB291 Act 791: 22:1828(D)