Indy Standard

State Representative Brad Barrett, a Republican from Richmond, has introduced House Bill 1003 with the aim of increasing transparency in health care, reducing costs, and empowering patients throughout Indiana.

“House Bill 1003 is a vital step toward reducing health care costs,” Barrett stated. “This legislation will address a wide range of issues, from pricing transparency and timely medical billing to free and enhanced access to medical records, ensuring that Hoosiers have access to the information and resources they need to make informed choices about their care.”

A significant element of the bill involves site-neutrality in billing practices. It ensures that patients are billed accurately based on where they receive medical services. This measure seeks to eliminate discrepancies and prevent higher charges for outpatient services compared to hospital facilities.

The proposed legislation also aims at improving transparency by requiring hospitals and clinical laboratories to publish service prices online. This would enable patients to compare costs more effectively. Additionally, it calls for clearer health provider contracts accessible to consumers.

“Ensuring that patients can easily understand the cost of their health care options and have access to the information necessary for making decisions is crucial,” Barrett emphasized. “This bill would promote a more accountable and patient-focused health care system.”

To improve billing efficiency, the bill mandates that providers initiate billing within 45 days of service delivery. Patients would also receive good faith estimates of expected costs promptly, offering them better financial clarity before treatment begins.

Further provisions include expanding access under Indiana’s right-to-try laws for investigational treatments for life-threatening conditions. The bill also proposes measures like capping out-of-network charges when provided at an in-network facility and enhancing electronic health record access without cost.

The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit's ability to investigate fraud cases would be strengthened under this legislation. It includes authority for the Indiana Attorney General to establish data-sharing agreements with state agencies for improved fraud detection. Moreover, MFCU investigators would be designated as law enforcement officers.

Barrett invites constituents’ feedback on this proposal through his website or by phone at 317-232-9695.

Having passed the House Insurance Committee, House Bill 1003 now awaits further consideration by the full House. Additional details or live session viewing are available at iga.in.gov.