Hospitals would need ID codes for off-campus clinic bills starting 2027

What does this do?

The bill requires hospitals to obtain a unique health identifier for each off-campus outpatient department and include it on bills sent to health plans or insurers. Hospitals that fail to include the identifier cannot bill the insurance plan or charge the patient for those services. It applies to employer-sponsored group health plans starting with plan years on or after January 1, 2027.

Who does it affect?

Hospitals, insurance companies, and employers offering group health plans are directly affected, as are patients treated at hospital-owned outpatient clinics.

Why does it matter?

Off-campus facilities sometimes charge differently than on-campus locations, and the identifier requirement is meant to clarify where care was provided amid billing confusion and disputes. Hospitals would face new administrative obligations and compliance risk under the law.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Fines up to $300/day for small hospitals
• Fines up to $5,500/day for larger hospitals
• DOL enforces via violation reports