The bill HB 316-FN introduces significant reforms to the reimbursement structure for ground ambulance services in New Hampshire, specifically prohibiting balance billing and establishing a new framework for reimbursement rates. It creates a new subdivision within RSA 420-J that defines key terms related to ground ambulance providers and mandates a temporary reimbursement rate set at 325% of the Medicare allowed rate for 2026 and 2027, transitioning to a cost-based rate determined by the commissioner starting in 2028. The bill also requires health carriers to negotiate contracts in good faith with ground ambulance providers and allows for cost-sharing. Additionally, it establishes a commission to enhance the financing and delivery of ground ambulance services, which will conduct a comprehensive study of costs and explore the feasibility of a uniform, cost-based reimbursement schedule.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing provisions related to the definitions of enrolling ground ambulance providers and temporary reimbursement rates, while introducing new definitions and prohibiting balance billing to ensure that patients are not charged beyond their health benefit plan's cost-sharing requirements. The commission will consist of various stakeholders and is tasked with reviewing the current state of ground ambulance services, making recommendations for reform, and reporting annually on its progress. The bill is set to take effect in two phases, with certain sections becoming effective on July 1, 2027, while the remainder will take effect upon passage. The fiscal impact remains indeterminable, as it may lead to increased health insurance premiums due to the prohibition on balance billing.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 153-A:38
As Amended by the Senate: 358-T:1, 153-A:38, 400-A:15