The Florida Medical Association (FMA) has announced plans to pursue legislation aimed at addressing insurance practices that it says negatively impact physicians’ revenue. The organization is focusing on two main issues: contractually-mandated credit card payments instead of electronic fund transfers, and retroactive denials where insurers authorize a service but later deny payment or seek reimbursement due to changes in a patient’s coverage status.
According to the FMA, mandatory credit card payments result in fees that reduce income for medical practices. The group also opposes situations where insurers recoup funds or deny payments for services that were previously authorized, especially when the denial is based on changes such as a patient losing employment-based coverage.
“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 is seeking support from its members and encourages those who have experienced these issues to share their stories. Physicians willing to testify before lawmakers in Tallahassee or speak with state representatives are asked to contact Jarrod Fowler, Director of Health Care Policy and Innovation at the FMA.
