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Bill

HB 1093

Health Insurance - Provider Panels - Requirements

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 17 co-sponsors

HB 1093 imposes new provider network requirements on Maryland health insurers to improve patient access and network transparency standards.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 707
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Bill Summary · HB 1093

Legislative bill overview

HB 1093 establishes new requirements for how health insurance companies must structure and maintain their provider networks in Maryland. The bill, sponsored by Delegate Bonnie Cullison, has advanced through committee with amendments and appears focused on network adequacy standards or transparency requirements for insurers.

Why is this important

Provider network adequacy directly affects patients' ability to access care—networks that are too narrow force patients to travel long distances or switch doctors. These requirements could improve healthcare access for Maryland residents while potentially increasing insurer costs or limiting plan options depending on how stringent the standards are.

Potential points of contention

  • Network adequacy standards vs. insurer flexibility: Insurers may argue that rigid requirements increase administrative costs and reduce their ability to negotiate competitive rates, potentially raising premium costs
  • Geographic and specialty considerations: Rural areas and certain specialties (mental health, behavioral health) have provider shortages that make network expansion difficult regardless of regulatory requirements
  • Definition and enforcement clarity: The specific metrics for "adequate" networks, enforcement mechanisms, and penalties for non-compliance will determine the bill's real-world effectiveness and burden on insurers

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

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