The proposed bill aims to enhance hospital transparency in West Virginia by introducing a new article to the Code of West Virginia, designated as Article 67. It outlines legislative findings regarding the rising costs of healthcare and the impact of hospital consolidation on prices. The bill defines key terms and establishes the duties of the West Virginia Health Care Authority, which includes requiring hospitals to file annual financial reports, submit public payor information, and engage in rulemaking. Hospitals will be mandated to publish detailed reports on their websites, including financial statements, service availability, and facility fees, all of which will be accessible for public inspection.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Public Employees Insurance Agency and the Bureau for Medical Services must provide the Health Care Authority with their rates by procedure code starting July 1, 2026. It includes provisions for penalties for non-compliance, with hospitals facing fines of $1,000 per day for continued violations after a notice of non-compliance. The effective date for the implementation of this article is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-67-1, 16-67-2, 16-67-3, 16-67-4, 16-67-5, 16-67-6
Committee Substitute: 16-67-1, 16-67-2, 16-67-3, 16-67-4, 16-67-5, 16-67-6, 16-67-7, 16-67-8, 16-29B-24
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 16-67-1, 16-67-2, 16-67-3, 16-67-4, 16-67-5, 16-67-6, 16-67-7, 16-67-8