SB15-074 Summary

• Creates the "Transparency in Health Care Prices Act" requiring health care providers to disclose direct pay prices for at least 15 most common services and health care facilities to disclose prices for at least 50 inpatient and 25 outpatient procedures in a public document, electronically, or on their website, updated at least annually.

• Health care providers and facilities are not required to submit prices to any government agency for review or approval, and the Department of Public Health and Environment has no authority to approve, disapprove, or limit prices.

• Prohibits health insurers, agencies, and health systems from penalizing individuals, employers, or providers for paying directly for health care services or participating in direct pay arrangements.

• Requires health care providers and facilities to provide recipients with a disclosure stating that advertised prices are estimates and actual charges may vary depending on circumstances at time of service.

• Takes effect January 1, 2016, subject to referendum petition and approval by voters at the November 2016 general election if challenged.