A balance billing measure is making its way through the Washington state legislative process, according to a KOMO report.
Balance billing occurs when patients are charged out-of-network rates for care provided at in-network facilities. Under House Bill 2114, facilities, providers and insurers would be required to disclose their network status, according to the report. KOMO reports the legislation also allows for arbitration and mediation when disputes arise, and "addresses … coverage at an out-of-network emergency department."
House Bill 2114 was reintroduced Jan. 8 during the 2018 regular session. As of Jan. 16, it was with the House Rules Committee. According to the report, a first hearing on the bill is anticipated in the coming weeks.
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