A new bill that would have required New Jersey out-of-network ASCs and other providers to charge patients out-of-pocket costs in many cases has failed to make it out of committee.
The bill, which was introduced by N.J. Democratic Assemblyman Gary Schaer and replaced similar legislation Mr. Schaer introduced in October, raised concerns among ASCs who face insurers' efforts to stifle their out-of-network status.
"It is remarkable that in the space of less than one year two potentially dangerous/damaging pieces of legislation (this and the Gill Bill) have been defeated, not even making it out of their committees," says Jeffrey Shanton, chair, Advocacy and Legislative Affairs Committee, New Jersey Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers.
"While celebration is in order, we cannot let down our guard. Indeed we must now press for and support legislation that furthers/advances our agenda," he says.
Read more coverage on out-of-network payments in New Jersey:
- New Jersey ASCs Face New Tactics by Payors to Eliminate OON Services
- New Jersey Regulators Approve Penalties for PIP Patients Using OON Centers