Sen. Lawrence Testifies on Bill to Protect Patient’s Rights

AUGUSTA – Sen. Mark W. Lawrence, D-Eliot, presented his bill LD 66, “An Act To Prohibit Hospitals from Discussing Alternative Payment Options with Hospitalized Patients,” at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29 to the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee Room at the State House.

This bill works to protect patient’s rights. LD 66 would prevent healthcare providers from approaching a patient to discuss alternate ways to pay for their treatment while that person is still receiving treatment. This would ensure that patients do not accept payment options that could be potentially damaging until they are healthy and coherent enough to make an informed decision.

George Carpinone, who gave testimony to support this bill, had been approached by hospital staff repeatedly about alternate payment options during his treatment and is looking for reform. According to Carpinone, “No one [should have] to encounter what I underwent in my ICU hospital room, at home after surgery.”

“This new bill will enhance the protection of the rights of patients to make sure they only make decisions about paying for their healthcare when they are in the right frame of mind,” said Sen. Lawrence. “Health care is incredibly expensive. The Medicaid expansion that Mainers voted for will alleviate some costs for patients, and LD 66 will protect their rights.”

Hospitals will be able to discuss alternate payment options with patients under the bill so long as patients request it during their treatment, or when they check in or check out from the hospital.