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HB 3721

INS OUT-OF-NETWORK EMERGENCY

104th Regular Session Introduced by Harry Benton and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois bill requires insurers to cover out-of-network emergency services at in-network rates, protecting patients from surprise medical bills during emergencies.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 3721

Legislative bill overview

HB 3721 addresses insurance coverage for out-of-network emergency services in Illinois. The bill aims to protect patients from unexpected high costs when they receive emergency care from providers outside their insurance network. It establishes requirements for how insurers must handle out-of-network emergency claims.

Why is this important

Patients seeking emergency care have no ability to choose their provider or verify network status, yet they often face substantial out-of-pocket costs when treated by out-of-network physicians or facilities. This bill would prevent insurers from denying or underpaying claims for emergency services beyond a patient's control, reducing medical debt and surprise billing situations that affect thousands of Illinois residents annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes a true "emergency" and whether certain urgent care situations should be included
  • Insurer costs vs. patient protection: Insurance industry concerns about increased claims expenses and potential premium impacts versus consumer advocates' arguments that surprise bills harm vulnerable patients
  • Network adequacy standards: Questions about whether the bill should mandate insurers maintain adequate emergency networks statewide, particularly in rural areas

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

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