The bill amends various sections of the General Laws to strengthen regulations surrounding medical licensure, patient rights, and the processing of healthcare claims. It introduces new provisions regarding unprofessional conduct for medical practitioners, specifically prohibiting the refusal to submit medical bills related to motor vehicle accidents or third-party claims. The bill mandates that medical providers fulfill requests for medical records or bills within fourteen days of a written request and establishes penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill outlines patient rights within healthcare facilities, ensuring respectful care, the right to refuse treatment, and the right to privacy regarding medical records. It requires healthcare facilities to provide patients with a summarized medical bill within fourteen days of receipt of a written request.

The bill sets stricter requirements for the prompt processing of claims by healthcare entities and health plans, prohibiting the denial of claims solely based on their association with motor vehicle accidents or third-party claims, with certain exceptions for workers' compensation claims. It also prohibits health plans from making payments under a policyholder's first-party coverage without the express written consent of the policyholder.

The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5066: 5-37-5.1, 23-17-19.1, 27-18-61, 27-19-52, 27-20-47, 27-41-64