The bill amends Section 2 of P.L.1989, c.19 (C.45:9-22.5) to establish new regulations regarding patient referrals by practitioners who have a significant beneficial interest in health care services. It prohibits practitioners from referring patients to services in which they or their immediate family have such interests, with specific exceptions. These exceptions include cases where the beneficial interest existed prior to certain effective dates, referrals to services providing lithotripsy or radiation therapy under specific protocols, and referrals to pharmacies integrated with oncology practices that meet additional requirements. Practitioners are required to disclose their significant beneficial interests to patients and provide a written disclosure form.

Additionally, the bill outlines various scenarios where the referral restrictions do not apply, such as medical treatments provided at the practitioner's office, renal dialysis, and certain surgical procedures, provided specific conditions are met. It also includes provisions for referrals made under alternative payment models, ensuring that such referrals are documented and comply with established standards. The bill aims to enhance transparency and protect patients from potential conflicts of interest in health care referrals.

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