The bill, H.B. No. 4094, aims to enhance the regulation of freestanding emergency medical care facilities in Texas by establishing clearer definitions and guidelines for the provision of emergency care services. It introduces a new definition of "Patient" as an individual seeking or receiving emergency care at such facilities. Additionally, the bill outlines the purpose of the chapter, emphasizing the protection of patients and ensuring that facilities meet the necessary standards for emergency care, including the ability to stabilize and transfer patients. It also clarifies that the chapter does not prohibit the colocation of emergency and non-emergency health care services, nor does it restrict the dual use of a facility's resources for different types of care.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that facilities may only charge a facility fee for emergency care and prohibits them from charging such fees for non-emergency services. It mandates that facilities post clear notices regarding their status as freestanding emergency medical care facilities, including information about their fee structures and potential out-of-network billing. The bill also requires disclosure statements to include specific information about facility fees for emergency care, ensuring transparency for patients. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 254.001, Health and Safety Code 254.155, Health and Safety Code 254.1555, Health and Safety Code 254.156 (Health and Safety Code 254)