Judge puts voter-approved medical debt relief measure on hold in Arizona

Arizona voters in November overwhelmingly passed a measure designed to reduce interest rates on medical debt, but a judge has temporarily halted the measure from taking full effect, the Arizona Republic reported Dec. 8.

Advertisement

The measure is being challenged by opponents who argue that the ballot initiative is unclear about whether its provisions will apply to old debts or only to those that occur after it has taken effect, according to the report. 

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Blanchard signed a temporary restraining order preventing cases from an action incurred before Dec. 5 that have not gone to collections yet from receiving protections under the measure, according to the report. Debts incurred after Dec. 5 will be protected by the provisions.   

Rodd McLeod, a spokesperson for Healthcare Rising — a group supporting the measure — told the outlet that opponents “need to give it a rest and accept the will of the people.”

An evidentiary hearing is scheduled for Dec. 16, according to the report. 

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Download Whitepaper

The cost-saving opportunity most health systems overlook

Many hospitals and health systems scrutinize staffing, service lines, and payer contracts for savings. Fewer look at one of their largest assets: real estate.…

Advertisement

Next Up in Financial Management

Advertisement

Comments are closed.