Californians Are Now Protected From Surprise Medical Bills
The regulations against "balance billing" went into effect at the beginning of the month. The San Diego Union-Tribune offers a look at what exactly those rules protect against.
San Diego Union-Tribune:
Insurance Company Won't Pay Entire Medical Bill? New State Rules Will Help
California this month instituted some of the nation’s toughest rules against “balance billing,” which has affected tens of millions of patients over the years. ... In other words, the hospital where the patient is staying may be under contract with that person’s insurance company — so it’s considered an in-network arrangement. But certain surgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, ambulance companies and others providing service at that hospital may not be part of the network, and they can charge rates higher than the usual contracted amounts. (Sisson, 7/31)