CIVIL/DAMAGES: Creates CARE Accounts for certain damages arising from delictual actions
What changed between versions
Removed exemptions that barred the use of CARE Accounts in intentional tort, medical malpractice, sexual assault, and specific government-funded actions.
Updated the definition of 'Qualifying medical expenses' to include products and services listed in standard medical coding systems (CPT and HCPCS) and travel costs related to those services.
Replaced the term 'Payor' with 'Qualifying medical expenses' in the definitions section to clarify the types of costs covered by the account.
Changed the account ownership structure so the account is owned by the judgment debtor but held for the benefit of the judgment creditor, rather than being owned by the payor.
Added a requirement for the judgment creditor to sign an affidavit confirming they understand funds are strictly for qualifying medical expenses before deposit.
Added a new procedure allowing the judgment creditor to pay for a declined medical transaction with other funds and request reimbursement from the CARE Account.
Changed the outcome upon the death of the account holder: funds now revert to the judgment debtor instead of being split among payors.
Reduced the document length from five pages to four pages through text consolidation and formatting adjustments.