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HB 367

Health Insurance - Physical Therapy - Copayments, Coinsurance, and Deductibles

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nic Kipke

Maryland bill would reduce patient out-of-pocket costs for physical therapy by limiting copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles on insurance plans.

Hearing 2/05 at 1:45 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 367

Legislative bill overview

HB 367 would modify health insurance requirements in Maryland regarding out-of-pocket costs (copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles) for physical therapy services. The bill appears designed to reduce financial barriers patients face when accessing physical therapy treatment through their health insurance plans.

Why is this important

Physical therapy can be essential for rehabilitation after injury, surgery, or for managing chronic conditions, but high out-of-pocket costs may prevent patients from pursuing recommended treatment. By potentially limiting or restructuring these costs, the bill could improve access to preventive and rehabilitative care, though it would increase insurer costs that may be passed to consumers through premiums.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost impact on premiums: Reducing out-of-pocket costs for physical therapy will likely increase insurance premiums for all enrollees, affecting those who don't use physical therapy services
  • Insurance market effects: Stricter copayment/coinsurance limits may reduce insurers' ability to manage costs, potentially causing some plans to exit the Maryland market or reduce coverage options
  • Definition and scope: The bill's specific limits on copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles remain unclear without seeing the full text; overly broad requirements could impact telehealth physical therapy and experimental treatments differently than in-office care

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

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