The "Fair Access to Health Care Networks Act" aims to enhance patient access to health care services in New Jersey by requiring insurance carriers to accept all state-licensed health care facilities and provider entities into their networks upon application, provided they are in good standing. The bill defines "carrier" to include various types of health insurance providers and mandates that these carriers reimburse participating facilities at a minimum of 200% of the applicable Medicare reimbursement rate, unless a different rate is agreed upon. Additionally, it prohibits carriers from excluding providers based on ownership structure, size, or affiliation with hospital systems, thereby promoting equity and competition in the health care market.

To enforce these provisions, the bill allocates $2 million from the General Fund to the Department of Banking and Insurance, which will oversee compliance. Carriers found in violation of the act may face civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation and could have their licenses suspended or revoked. The bill also establishes an expedited appeal process for health care facilities or provider entities that are excluded from networks or face unfavorable rate-setting decisions. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve patient choice and access to local care while ensuring fair treatment for smaller, cost-effective providers.