STATE News:SANTA FE ― The House of Representatives unanimously has passed House Bill 207 to protect New Mexicans from surprise billing costs.
House Bill 207, sponsored by Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces), protects people with health insurance from out of network and unexpected billing costs.
Surprise billing occurs when a patient goes for care to a hospital or clinic in their insurance network. But, if they are cared for by an out of network provider, the patient can receive a balance bill far above their regular deductible. The Managed Care Division of the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance estimates that it handles approximately 200 surprise bill complaints a year.
“When New Mexicans access critical health care services, they should not return home to an outrageously costly bill. Surprise billing hurts New Mexico patients and families. Our legislation will take patients and their families out of the middle, while providing fairness to healthcare providers and health insurance carriers.” Rep. Nathan Small said. “I am proud to have passed this legislation through the House so that all New Mexicans can receive health care without fear of financial ruin.”
House Bill 207 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
