An act relating to patient access to and payment for health care services

This bill aims to improve patient access to and payment for health care services in Vermont by establishing several new rules for hospitals and health care providers. It limits the cost of coronavirus diagnostic tests to twice the Medicare rate, prevents hospitals from placing liens on accident victims without first seeking payment from insurance, and requires hospitals to report wait times annually. The legislation also mandates that health care providers submit payment claims within 60 days of service and requires medical records to be sent to patients within 10 days of request, with limited fees allowed for copies. These provisions would take effect on July 1, 2023, and apply to all hospitals and health care providers operating in Vermont.