The Florida Medical Association (FMA) announced plans to advocate for legislative changes aimed at stopping insurance practices that it says negatively affect physicians’ revenue. The FMA is targeting two specific insurer actions: contractually mandated credit card payments instead of electronic fund transfers, and retroactive denials in which insurers approve a service but later deny payment or attempt to recover funds due to a change in the 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 calling on its members who have faced these issues to participate in advocacy efforts. Physicians are encouraged to testify before lawmakers in Tallahassee or speak with their state representatives and senators about their experiences. Those interested can contact Jarrod Fowler, FMA Director of Health Care Policy and Innovation, at jfowler@flmedical.org.
The FMA said it will focus on legislation addressing both mandatory credit card payment fees and retroactive claim denials as part of its agenda for the upcoming year.