The bill amends the definition of "unprofessional conduct" in the medical field by adding two new items: (1) refusing to submit medical bills to a health insurer when the bill is related to a motor vehicle accident or third-party claim, and (2) failing to process requests for medical records or bills within fourteen days of a written request. It also reinforces patient rights in healthcare facilities, such as the right to considerate care, information about their treatment, and the right to refuse treatment. The bill requires healthcare facilities to provide a summarized medical bill within 30 days of discharge and an itemized bill within 14 days upon request.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that healthcare entities or health plans pay complete claims within 40 calendar days for written claims or 30 days for electronic claims. It prohibits the denial of claims based solely on the fact that they result from a motor vehicle accident or third-party claim, except for workers' compensation claims. The bill also requires policyholder consent before making payments under first-party coverage and outlines interest penalties for delayed reimbursements. It defines relevant terms and establishes conditions under which entities are not in violation of the prompt processing requirements. Any contract provisions inconsistent with these requirements are declared void. The bill takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2613: 5-37-5.1, 23-17-19.1, 27-18-61, 27-19-52, 27-20-47, 27-41-64