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Bill

HB 1292

Health Insurance - Provider Directory - Required Updates

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 26 co-sponsors

Maryland requires health insurers to maintain accurate provider directories with timely updates and establishes penalties for non-compliance to improve patient access to correct healthcare information.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 648
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Bill Summary · HB 1292

Legislative bill overview

HB 1292 requires health insurance companies in Maryland to maintain accurate, up-to-date provider directories and establish clear processes for updating provider information. The bill mandates timely corrections when providers notify insurers of changes and establishes penalties for non-compliance with directory accuracy requirements.

Why is this important

Outdated provider directories create significant problems for patients—they may travel to closed practices, call disconnected phone numbers, or waste time verifying coverage before receiving care. This bill addresses a widespread consumer frustration by holding insurers accountable for directory accuracy, potentially reducing barriers to accessing healthcare services.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden on insurers: Health insurance companies argue that maintaining real-time directories is operationally complex and costly, particularly for large networks with thousands of providers
  • Provider cooperation requirements: The bill's effectiveness depends on healthcare providers promptly notifying insurers of changes; some providers may not comply consistently or quickly
  • Penalty effectiveness: Questions exist about whether the proposed penalties are sufficient to incentivize compliance or merely become a cost of doing business absorbed by consumers through premiums

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

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