This bill proposes amendments to current law regarding patient rights and the processing of insurance claims. It requires healthcare facilities to inform patients of any human-subjects research proposals and offer them the right to refuse to participate, unless the research involves potentially lifesaving devices, medications, or treatments and the patient is unable to consent due to a life-threatening situation. The bill also grants patients the right to examine and receive an explanation of their medical bill, as well as access to healthcare facility rules and regulations. Patients must be offered treatment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, or source of payment. They must also be provided with a summarized medical bill within 30 days of discharge, and upon request, an itemized copy of the bill within 14 days. Violation of this right is subject to penalties. Additionally, the bill amends the prompt processing of claims for health insurance policies. It requires health care entities or health plans to pay complete claims within 40 calendar days of receipt for written claims or 30 calendar days for electronic claims. If a claim is denied or pended, the entity or plan must notify the provider or policyholder within 30 days and provide reasons for the denial or pending status. Failure to reimburse a complete claim within the required timeframes will result in the entity or plan paying interest to the provider or policyholder. The bill also includes exceptions to these requirements.

Statutes affected:
102: 5-37-5.1, 23-17-19.1, 27-18-61, 27-19-52, 27-20-47, 27-41-64