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Bill

HB 1449

Statewide Provider and Health Plan Claim Dispute Resolution Program

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Demi Busatta

Florida creates statewide healthcare claim dispute resolution program to resolve provider-plan payment disagreements through mediation/arbitration instead of litigation.

1st Reading (Original Filed Version)
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Bill Summary · HB 1449

Legislative bill overview

HB 1449 establishes a statewide claim dispute resolution program in Florida to address disagreements between healthcare providers, health plans, and patients regarding claim denials, reimbursement rates, and payment disputes. The program would create a standardized mechanism—likely including mediation and/or arbitration processes—to resolve these disputes outside traditional litigation. This represents a structured alternative to the current fragmented system where disputes are handled individually or through court proceedings.

Why is this important

Healthcare claim disputes directly affect patient access to care and provider financial viability. When claims are denied or underpaid, patients may face unexpected costs or delayed care, while providers face cash flow problems. A statewide resolution program could reduce litigation costs, speed up dispute resolution, and create consistency in how disputes are handled across Florida's healthcare system. This is particularly significant for independent providers and smaller health plans that lack resources for prolonged legal battles.

Potential points of contention

  • Program structure and neutrality: Whether the dispute resolution entity will truly be impartial, or if health plans and large providers will have disproportionate influence over outcomes
  • Binding vs. non-binding decisions: Whether decisions are legally binding affects both access to courts and the enforceability of resolutions; binding decisions may favor certain stakeholders
  • Cost allocation: Who pays for the program administration and dispute resolution services (patients, providers, plans, or the state) will be contentious, as will any caps on recoverable fees

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

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