Bill H.848 aims to limit the ability of hospitals and hospital networks to charge facility fees for specific outpatient services and telehealth consultations. The bill introduces new legal language that defines "facility fee" and outlines the conditions under which these fees cannot be charged. Specifically, hospitals are prohibited from charging facility fees for outpatient services that utilize certain evaluation and management codes, as well as for services delivered through telehealth. Additionally, hospitals are required to provide written notice to patients regarding any applicable facility fees before delivering services that would incur such charges.

The bill includes a new section, 18 V.S.A. 1856, which establishes definitions for key terms such as "health care provider," "hospital," "hospital network," and "telehealth." It also specifies that the act will take effect on July 1, 2026. Overall, H.848 seeks to enhance transparency and reduce financial burdens on patients receiving outpatient care and telehealth services.