House Bill 268 mandates clear billing practices for hospital patients

On March 3, 2025, Maryland lawmakers introduced House Bill 268, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing transparency in hospital billing practices. The bill seeks to address the complexities and often confusing nature of hospital charges, particularly for nonemergency services.

The primary purpose of House Bill 268 is to ensure that patients receive clear and comprehensive information regarding their hospital bills. Key provisions include the requirement for hospitals to provide an information sheet that outlines essential billing details. This sheet must clarify that physician charges are separate from hospital bills and inform patients of their right to request a written estimate of total charges for nonemergency services.

Moreover, the bill mandates that the information sheet be presented in simplified language, at least 10-point type, and in the patient's preferred language, or in languages spoken by at least 5% of the local population if no preference is specified. This provision aims to accommodate limited English proficient populations, ensuring that all patients can understand their financial obligations.

The bill also stipulates that hospitals must provide this information sheet at various points: before discharge, with the hospital bill, upon request, and in any written communication regarding bill collection. Additionally, hospitals are required to reference the information sheet in their billing statements.

The Maryland Health Care Commission will oversee the establishment of uniform requirements for the information sheet and will review hospitals' compliance with these standards. Furthermore, hospitals must ensure that trained staff are available to assist patients and their families in understanding their bills and rights, particularly concerning reduced-cost medically necessary care due to financial hardship.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to improve patient understanding and reduce billing disputes, it has also faced some opposition. Critics argue that the implementation of such requirements may impose additional administrative burdens on hospitals, particularly smaller facilities with limited resources.

The implications of House Bill 268 are significant, as it aims to empower patients with knowledge about their healthcare costs, potentially leading to more informed decision-making and reduced financial stress. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on hospital billing practices and patient experiences will be closely monitored. The next steps will involve discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers consider the feedback from various stakeholders in the healthcare community.