Authorizes payments to nonparticipating or nonpreferred providers of medical services

This bill requires health insurance companies to pay medical bills directly to doctors and clinics that are not part of their preferred networks, provided the provider has submitted a valid claim and assignment of benefits. Under the new rules, insurers must cover these services at negotiated rates or, if no agreement exists, at the provider's usual and customary charges as long as they are not excessive. The legislation also prohibits non-network providers from asking patients for upfront payments before the insurance company has processed and approved the claim. These changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and will apply to any medical claims submitted after that date.