Latest state law designed to help assure patients are not in the middle of billing disputes between providers and insurers.

A downloadable copy of the bill is at the link in the news report.

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Here’s a new law to help Hoosiers with surprise ambulance bills

by: Jana Garrett

May 17, 2024

https://www.tristatehomepage.com/news/indiana-news/heres-a-new-law-to-help-hoosiers-with-surprise-ambulance-bills/

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – According to the Indiana House Republicans, State Representative Tim O’Brien supported a new law that would will require health insurance companies to reimburse for ambulance services that are not part of a person’s coverage plan.

According to a report by Health Affairs, about 28% of emergency trips in a ground ambulance result in a potential surprise bill. Officials say these bills can place a “significant” financial burden on patients, often leaving them with “overwhelming” expenses they may struggle to pay.

Rep. O’Brien says going forward, those who use an out-of-network ambulance service will be protected from having to pay more for that service than their in-network rate plus either their deductible or copay. Out-of-network ambulance providers must now accept either the patient’s in-network rate plus their deductible or copay, or the 400% of the Medicare rate for those services.

Rep. O’Brien says currently, there is no set time frame in which an ambulance service must receive payment from health plan providers. Under this new law, service providers must receive payment within 30 days of the claim being filed.

Officials say House Enrolled Act 1385 goes into effect July 1.

Here’s a new law to help Hoosiers with surprise ambulance bills