The bill amends Section 2 of P.L.1989, c.19 (C.45:9-22.5) to clarify the conditions under which practitioners can refer patients to health care services in which they or their immediate family have a significant beneficial interest. It specifies that practitioners may continue to make referrals if they disclose their significant beneficial interest to the patient, particularly in cases involving pharmacies integrated with oncology practices that dispense medications exclusively to their patients. Additionally, the bill outlines various exemptions to the referral restrictions, including certain medical treatments, renal dialysis, and procedures performed at licensed surgical practices, provided specific conditions are met.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding alternative payment models, allowing referrals to health care services where the practitioner has a significant beneficial interest, as long as the interest is related to the model's standards and documented appropriately. The bill also emphasizes the need for pharmacies integrated with oncology practices to maintain direct access to patient records and ensure proper communication with patients and their treating physicians. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:9-22.5
Advance Law: 45:9-22.5
Pamphlet Law: 45:9-22.5