With all the focus on the Republicans’ efforts to destroy the ACA/Obamacare, this may be flying under the radar (apologies if it’s already been blogged):
Current law does not allow physicians to bill patients more than the Medicare payment rate for any service. But in response to a query from Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) during his confirmation process, Price said he favored changing the law to let doctors recoup unreimbursed Medicare costs, a practice known as balance billing.
What insurance company allows balance billing of members … none at the moment. If Price makes this change to Medicare ALL insurance companies will follow suit. What’s the point of paying a premium? And, it will appear as if patients are getting a good deal because premiums will go down but they will be hit will balance bills, which will likely bankrupt many. Craziness.
Modern Healthcare Article
As part of Price's confirmation process, Nelson and other senators questioned Price about his stances on healthcare policy, including Medicare. Nelson, an opponent of balance billing, said most Medicare beneficiaries have limited incomes and may not have the financial resources to pay a provider for the excess price of services beyond what's covered by Medicare.
Please call or write your senators and Congressman to ensure this doesn’t get missed.