The bill would also require hospitals to standardize information given to patients regarding financial aid and would restrict certain debt collection practices.
The bill, introduced by Sen. George Della, Jr., would allow the state’s Health Services Cost Review Commission to implement the following:
- require hospitals to establish financial assistance policies that ensure free care to patients whose income is at or below 150 percent of the poverty level and reduced-cost care to patients whose income is above 150 percent of the poverty level, in accordance with the mission and service area of the hospital;
- prohibit placing liens on patients’ primary residences in order to obtain payment for debt;
- prohibit the selling of debt and limit the rate of interest placed on a debt;
- require hospitals to provide standardized information sheets for patients who do not indicate private or public health care coverage; and
- oversee compliance with these new policies and impose fines for violations of up to $50,000.
View the proposed bill that would establish Maryland hospital financial assistance policies. (pdf)
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.
