Gov. Mike Braun Announces New Laws Aimed at Reducing Health Care Costs This Spring – Discover How They Affect You!

Gov. Mike Braun recently celebrated the signing of 10 new health care bills aimed at reducing costs for Indiana residents. These laws emerged from this year’s legislative session and reflect a cooperative spirit among lawmakers from both parties.

One key law mandates that health insurers must credit consumers who find cheaper rates for health services. This change promotes savings and encourages price transparency. Additionally, a new rule requires health plan administrators to prioritize their clients’ best interests. It also establishes a system for reimbursing patients involved in cancer clinical trials for various expenses like travel and lodging.

Health care costs were a major focus during Braun’s campaign, second only to property taxes and the state budget this session. Notably, five of the ten bills passed with overwhelming support, showing a rare moment of bipartisan agreement.

Braun expressed enthusiasm for the progression he sees in Indiana’s health care landscape. “We achieved a lot in one year,” he remarked, highlighting the push for transparency and accountability.

Among the most complex legislation was House Bill 1003. This law expands Indiana’s right-to-try legislation and mandates that nonprofit hospitals with significant revenue apply site-of-service payments in off-campus outpatient settings. Additionally, it requires insurers to provide a good-faith estimate of out-of-pocket costs for procedures within 48 hours instead of the current five days. It also prevents insurers from denying coverage based on referrals by independent or out-of-network providers.

House Bill 1004, another priority, mandates that nonprofit hospitals submit audited financial statements and implement a Medicaid direct payment system. It also sets a goal for hospitals to ensure their pricing remains at or below the statewide average by 2029.

Rep. Julie McGuire, who helped draft the health insurance credit bill, praised the collaborative effort among lawmakers. “We worked well together, and many of these bills fit together like pieces of a puzzle,” she noted.

However, not everyone is entirely optimistic. Rep. Robin Shackleford voiced concern over new Medicaid work requirements. While she acknowledged positive aspects of the new laws, she warned that certain measures might disadvantage some individuals.

As Indiana takes these steps, it’s essential to consider nationwide health care trends. According to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 60% of Americans struggle with medical costs. This underscores the importance of ongoing reforms that address these pressing challenges.

With these newly signed laws, Indiana is attempting to lead the way in more transparent and consumer-friendly health care, but as with all reforms, the effectiveness will unfold over time.



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