Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that allow patients to appeal decisions made by their health plan organization about coverage and treatment and provide federal protections, such as access to emergency room care.

Highlights:

• Gives patients the right to sue insurance companies over medical decisions in state court, with a cap of $5 million on non-economic damages.

• Requires that patients demonstrate harm, not just allege it, before going to court.

• Exempts hospitals and physicians from liability for certain health plan decisions.

• Bans concurrent suits in federal and state court.

• Prohibits insurance companies from penalizing doctors for ordering procedures that insurance companies do not classify as necessary.

• Allows patients to visit the closest emergency room, regardless of other factors.

Full Bill Text

Full Bill Text