In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire Senate Health and Human Services Committee, significant progress was made towards addressing the critical issue of balance billing in emergency medical services (EMS). The committee discussed two key legislative proposals aimed at consumer protection and stabilizing the EMS system, which has faced challenges in recent years.

The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit balance billing, a practice where patients are billed for the difference between what their insurance pays and what the provider charges. This practice has raised concerns among consumers, prompting lawmakers to find a solution that protects patients while ensuring the financial viability of ambulance services. A temporary rate of 325% of Medicare reimbursement is suggested for a two-year period, after which the situation will be reassessed.

The committee emphasized the importance of encouraging ambulance services to join insurance networks. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) will be developed to initiate this process, signaling a commitment from providers to enter into network agreements. This step is crucial to ensure that when residents call 911, they receive timely assistance without the burden of unexpected medical bills.

Additionally, the committee plans to establish a commission to review EMS rates and explore better models for service delivery. This commission will merge elements from previous bills to create a comprehensive approach to EMS system reform. Acknowledging the flaws in earlier cost studies, lawmakers committed to conducting a new analysis to ensure that future decisions are based on accurate data.

The discussions highlighted a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including the Department of Insurance and representatives from the ambulance community. The committee expressed gratitude for the hard work that has led to a tentative agreement, which aims to balance the needs of consumers and service providers.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on finalizing the proposed legislation and addressing any remaining issues to ensure the stability of EMS services across the state. The anticipated changes are seen as a vital step in safeguarding public health and ensuring that emergency services remain accessible and reliable for all New Hampshire residents.