Indy Standard

The Indiana House has approved legislation introduced by State Representative Brad Barrett aimed at increasing transparency in health care, reducing costs, and empowering patients. The bill, known as House Bill 1003, seeks to address several issues within the state's health care system.

One of the main components of the bill is a site-neutrality measure that ensures uniform billing for medical services regardless of where they are provided. This aims to prevent discrepancies in billing practices and eliminate higher charges for outpatient services compared to hospital facilities.

“House Bill 1003 would be a step toward reducing unnecessary health care costs and increasing transparency for patients across Indiana," Barrett stated. "By passing this legislation in the House, we are one step closer to ensuring Hoosiers have the information and protections they need to navigate their health care decisions with confidence."

The bill mandates hospitals and clinical laboratories to post service prices online, allowing patients to compare costs effectively. It also requires clearer contracts between health providers and consumers.

To improve timely medical billing practices, the legislation sets a requirement for providers to initiate billing within 45 days of service delivery. Patients must receive good faith estimates of expected costs quickly so they can understand their financial responsibilities before treatment begins.

Barrett highlighted that this legislation would expand access to investigational treatments under Indiana’s right-to-try laws for those with life-threatening conditions. Additionally, it proposes measures like capping out-of-network charges when services are rendered at an in-network facility and improving access to electronic health records without cost.

The bill further enhances the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit's ability to investigate fraud cases involving providers or insurers by designating its investigators as law enforcement officers. It also empowers the Indiana Attorney General with authority over data-sharing agreements aimed at boosting fraud detection efforts.

Barrett encourages constituents interested in sharing feedback on this legislative effort to visit his website or contact his office directly.

House Bill 1003 now advances to the Senate for further review. Additional details about session proceedings can be found on iga.in.gov.