Senate Bill 4 aims to create a legal framework for direct primary care agreements in Wisconsin, exempting them from traditional insurance laws. A direct primary care agreement is defined as a contract between a healthcare provider and a patient (or their representative) where the provider agrees to deliver primary care services for a specified subscription fee and duration. The bill outlines the requirements for a valid agreement, which must be in writing, signed by both parties, and include specific details such as the services provided, subscription fees, and termination terms. Importantly, the agreement must clearly state that it is not health insurance and that patients are responsible for any services not covered under the agreement.
Additionally, the bill prohibits healthcare providers from declining to enter into or terminating a direct primary care agreement solely based on a patient's health status, with specific exceptions. It allows for termination under certain conditions, such as non-payment or failure to adhere to treatment plans. The bill also clarifies that healthcare providers can participate in insurance networks if they choose, without compromising their direct primary care agreements. Overall, this legislation seeks to enhance access to primary care while ensuring transparency and accountability in direct primary care arrangements.