8/21/2025
The Goal of the Bill
The intent is to:
- Prevent health insurers from collapsing financially
- Protect consumers from losing coverage if an insurer fails
- Maintain some level of stability in the health insurance market during crises
Potential Implications for Hospitals
While the bill could help insurers remain solvent, it may also:
- Reduce hospital revenue for services already rendered
- Put financial strain on hospitals—especially smaller or rural facilities
- Shift more costs to patients if hospitals attempt to make up the difference
Potential Implications for Consumers
If implemented, consumers could see:
- Continued coverage with an at-risk insurer instead of a sudden policy termination
- Possible changes in hospital willingness to accept certain plans during insolvency periods
- Indirect impacts on provider availability or access
Why This Matters
This bill creates a mechanism to protect the broader insurance market during emergencies but may introduce tension between insurers and hospitals over payment rates. For patients, the effects will depend on how—and when—regulators decide to use this authority.
Final Thought: Bill H.482 highlights the balance regulators must strike between keeping insurers afloat and ensuring hospitals are adequately compensated for patient care.
Need help understanding how policy changes could affect your coverage? Call (716) 503-1113 for guidance.