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Bill

HB 268

Hospitals - Financial Assistance and Collection of Debts - Policies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 15 co-sponsors

Maryland law now requires hospitals to adopt transparent financial assistance policies and restrict aggressive debt collection while ensuring patient access to aid programs.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 693
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Bill Summary · HB 268

Legislative bill overview

HB 268 establishes new requirements for Maryland hospitals regarding financial assistance policies and debt collection practices. The bill mandates that hospitals implement standardized financial assistance programs, limits aggressive collection tactics, and requires clear communication with patients about their rights and available aid options.

Why is this important

Medical debt is a leading cause of personal bankruptcy in the United States, and many patients are unaware of financial assistance programs available to them. This legislation directly addresses healthcare affordability by ensuring hospitals transparently communicate assistance options and use responsible collection practices, potentially preventing vulnerable patients from accumulating unpayable debt.

Potential points of contention

  • Hospital operational costs: Healthcare providers argue that stricter collection limitations and mandatory assistance programs increase administrative burden and may reduce revenue, potentially affecting service capacity or staff compensation
  • Definition and scope of assistance: Ambiguity about income thresholds, what qualifies for assistance, and how hospitals should calculate patient ability-to-pay could create inconsistent implementation across the state
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill's provisions lack clear enforcement authority or penalties, raising questions about compliance oversight and whether hospitals will meaningfully implement the requirements

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

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