MD HB1563

Prohibits insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations from denying coverage for emergency room services solely because the patient did not experience an actual emergency medical condition, effective January 1, 2027

Requires the Maryland Insurance Commissioner's annual summary report to include data on adverse decisions and grievances related to post-acute services, including admissions to skilled nursing facilities and inpatient rehabilitation facilities

Mandates the Maryland Health Care Commission and Health Services Cost Review Commission to conduct a study quantifying bed capacity (physical, staffed, and licensed beds) in hospitals and post-acute care settings statewide, with findings due by January 1, 2027

Requires a separate study analyzing options to facilitate clinically appropriate patient transitions from acute care to post-acute care settings, with recommendations due by January 1, 2027

General provisions take effect June 1, 2026, while the emergency room coverage protections apply to policies issued, delivered, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027