The Florida Medical Association (FMA) has announced plans to pursue legislation aimed at stopping insurance practices that it says can reduce physicians’ revenue. The group is focusing on two issues: requirements for contractually-mandated credit card payments instead of electronic fund transfers, and retroactive denials, in which insurers authorize a service but later deny payment or seek repayment due to changes in a patient’s coverage status.
“Medical practices should not be forced to lose money because of fees associated with mandatory credit card payments, nor should insurers be allowed to recoup funds or deny payments for services that have been duly authorized,” the FMA stated.
The association is asking physicians who have experienced these issues to help advocate for legislative reforms. Those willing to testify before lawmakers in Tallahassee or speak with state representatives are encouraged to contact Jarrod Fowler, FMA Director of Health Care Policy and Innovation, at jfowler@flmedical.org.
The FMA specifically wants input from medical professionals who have dealt with either mandatory credit card payment fees or retroactive denials based on changes in patient coverage.
