The bill amends the definition of "unprofessional conduct" under Section 5-37-5.1 of the General Laws by adding two new items: (33) prohibiting the refusal to submit medical bills to a health insurer based on the bill arising from a motor vehicle accident or third-party claim, and (34) mandating the processing of requests for medical records or bills within fourteen days of a written request, with penalties for non-compliance as outlined in § 5-37-25. It also emphasizes patient rights in healthcare facilities under Section 23-17-19.1, ensuring respectful care, the right to refuse treatment, privacy, and timely access to medical records and billing information.

The bill further specifies the prompt processing of healthcare claims, requiring that complete claims be paid within 40 days for written claims or 30 days for electronic claims, and prohibits the denial of claims based solely on their association with motor vehicle accidents or third-party claims, except for workers' compensation claims. It sets an interest penalty of 12% per annum for late payments and outlines exceptions to these requirements. The bill also includes definitions for relevant terms and declares any inconsistent contract provisions between healthcare entities or health plans and healthcare providers void, with the act taking effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7143: 5-37-5.1, 23-17-19.1, 27-18-61, 27-19-52, 27-20-47, 27-41-64