Health Care Today | Health Law Blog

Since the No Surprises Act was signed into law in 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services has published several rules with respect to the Act, leaving many unanswered questions. With the Act taking effect this month, forums are now being held to educate providers on the new law, which curtails surprise medical bills from out-of-network providers.

The No Surprises Act, which then-President Trump signed into law on December 27, 2020, as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, addresses surprise medical bills from out-of-network providers when patients believe they are seeking care from in-network providers. Most sections of the act go into effect on January 1, 2022, and the Departments of Health and Human Services, Treasury, and Labor are working on regulations to implement many provisions of the act.

Certain treatments for chronic conditions can now be covered by high deductible health plans (HDHPs) as preventive care before the deductible is met. Pursuant to an executive order, a new IRS notice will allow individuals with certain conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, to obtain coverage for treatments and medications, such as inhalers and insulin, without first meeting their high deductible.