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Bill

HD 3236

An Act relative to patient financial protection

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker

Massachusetts bill limits surprise medical bills and balance billing while requiring healthcare providers to disclose costs transparently to protect patients from unexpected debt.

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Bill Summary · HD 3236

Legislative bill overview

HD 3236 establishes protections for patients facing medical debt by limiting balance billing practices and requiring transparency in healthcare costs. The bill aims to prevent hospitals and providers from charging patients unexpected out-of-network fees or amounts exceeding agreed-upon rates.

Why is this important

Medical debt is a leading cause of personal bankruptcy and financial hardship in the United States. By restricting balance billing and improving cost transparency, the legislation could reduce surprise bills that patients cannot anticipate or control, protecting household finances from unexpected healthcare expenses.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider reimbursement concerns: Healthcare providers and hospitals may argue that restrictions on balance billing reduce their revenue and flexibility in setting rates, potentially affecting their financial viability or service capacity
  • Insurance market dynamics: Stricter billing regulations could influence how insurers negotiate with providers and may affect premium structures or coverage availability in certain markets
  • Implementation complexity: Defining which charges fall under protections, determining fair pricing benchmarks, and enforcing compliance across diverse healthcare settings presents administrative and definitional challenges

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

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