MS HB76

Defines "facility-based physicians" as radiologists, anesthesiologists, pathologists, emergency department physicians, neonatologists, and assistant surgeons with clinical privileges at a facility.

Requires facility-based physicians billing out-of-network patients to include a conspicuous explanation of mandatory mediation rights when the patient's responsibility exceeds $250 after copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance.

Allows patients to request mediation of out-of-network balance billing claims exceeding $250 for services provided by facility-based physicians at hospitals that are preferred providers or have contracts with the insurer.

Clarifies that when insured patients direct payment to licensed healthcare providers, such payment constitutes full payment and prohibits providers from billing patients additional amounts beyond deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, and noncovered services.

Effective date: July 1, 2018, applies only to charges for medical services provided on or after that date.