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Bill

SB 264

AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH CARE SERVICE COST ESTIMATES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henri Martin

Connecticut bill mandates health care providers give patients upfront cost estimates for non-emergency services, increasing price transparency to help patients plan expenses.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
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Bill Summary · SB 264

Legislative bill overview

SB 264 requires health care providers and insurers in Connecticut to furnish patients with accurate cost estimates before delivering non-emergency services. The bill aims to increase price transparency in the health care system, allowing patients to make informed financial decisions about their care.

Why is this important

Health care costs are a leading financial concern for American families, and lack of price transparency often leaves patients unable to compare costs or plan budgets before receiving care. By mandating upfront estimates, this bill could reduce unexpected medical bills and give patients leverage to seek second opinions or alternative providers based on price.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Providers argue that generating accurate estimates is administratively complex, especially for procedures with variable costs or complications, potentially increasing operational expenses
  • Insurance company coordination: The bill requires coordination between providers and insurers to produce reliable estimates, which could face delays or accuracy issues given fragmented billing systems
  • Limited scope: The restriction to "non-emergency" services may exclude urgent care situations where transparency is difficult, potentially leaving a significant portion of health care costs unaddressed

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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