As noted yesterday, Congress continues to deliberate on surprise medical bills legislation. The key question pending right now is whether the proposal, known as the “No Surprises Act,” will be included in a larger last-minute package currently being prepared for Congressional consideration. It will not be considered as a freestanding bill. ASA expects a decision by Congressional leadership within the next 24-48 hours.
ASA’s leadership and advocacy staff continue to review the developing legislation with an eye toward how it will impact the practices of ASA members and their ability to negotiate fair contracts with health insurers.
ASA is pleased that several priorities from previous proposals have been incorporated into this new draft legislation. However, the “No Surprises Act” is not perfect. There are a number of other critical issues that ASA believes must be changed and ASA is working with Congress and allies to have those addressed. ASA submitted a letter to leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this afternoon which outlines the progress that has been made but also highlights areas of continued concern. Congressional deliberations on this issue continue.
ASA welcomes feedback on the letter and any other thoughts on this issue at [email protected]. Additional information about the “No Surprises Act” is available here.
Further updates on this actively evolving issue will be posted as they develop.