This bill aims to regulate the use of facility fees charged by certain health care providers in Michigan, establishing clear definitions and guidelines for their application. It defines key terms such as "emergency room," "facility fee," "freestanding emergency facility," and "health care provider," among others. Starting January 1, 2027, health care providers will be prohibited from charging facility fees for professional medical services provided through telemedicine, in non-hospital facilities, or for outpatient services in hospitals unless they are provided in an emergency room or involve observation. Additionally, health care providers must clearly identify facility fees on billing statements and inform patients of these fees prior to service.
The bill also provides legal recourse for individuals who believe they have been wronged by violations of these regulations, allowing them to pursue civil action for damages against the health care provider. Courts are mandated to award reasonable costs and attorney fees to plaintiffs who prevail in such actions. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that it does not prevent insurers from negotiating payment agreements with health systems regarding fees or costs deemed appropriate.