The Florida Medical Association (FMA) has announced plans to seek legislative changes aimed at addressing insurance practices that it says negatively affect physicians’ revenue. The association is focusing on two main issues: contractually-mandated credit card payments instead of electronic fund transfers, and retroactive denials where insurers approve a service but later refuse payment or reclaim funds if a patient’s coverage status changes.
According to the FMA, these practices result in unnecessary financial losses for medical providers. “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 association stated.
The FMA is asking physicians who have encountered these problems to assist its advocacy efforts. Physicians willing to testify before lawmakers in Tallahassee or discuss their experiences with state representatives are encouraged to contact Jarrod Fowler, Director of Health Care Policy and Innovation at the FMA.
The association’s call for support comes as part of its broader effort to push for reforms during the upcoming legislative session.