Creates provisions relating to payments to ambulance providers

HB 2597 sets minimum payment rates for out-of-network ambulance providers treating patients covered by health insurance plans. It requires insurance companies to pay these providers either the local government rate for ambulance services in that area or 325% of the Medicare rate for the same service (whichever is lower), but not more than the ambulance provider's billed charge. The bill mandates that payments be made directly to the ambulance provider within 30 days for complete claims, prohibits billing patients for additional amounts after payment, and limits patient cost-sharing to the same level as in-network services. This directly affects ambulance services (excluding air ambulances) and health insurance companies operating in the state.