Legislation that would prohibit the collection of facility fees from hospital outpatient departments was blocked from receiving a vote in the Michigan House of Representatives Aug. 26 following significant advocacy by the MHA and member hospitals in opposition to the proposal. House Bill (HB) 5770, sponsored by Rep. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington), would threaten access to care in communities across the state by restricting resources that support hospital outpatient services.
The House Health Policy Committee held a hearing on HB 5770 before discharging the bill to the House floor for an anticipated vote. Several amendments were adopted and the bill advanced to third reading, but ultimately was not taken up for a vote.
The MHA has worked extensively with legislators to express concerns about site-neutral policies that do not account for the costs of maintaining access to care or the unique patient populations hospitals serve. Facility fees support essential clinical staff, including nurses, social workers and pharmacists, as well as operational needs, such as 24/7 emergency and trauma care, infrastructure and information technology.
Hospital outpatient departments serve as important access points for patients and help keep healthcare local and accessible. Non-hospital outpatient centers treat fewer Medicaid patients, take less severe cases, are not always open and face fewer regulatory requirements.
The MHA will continue working with lawmakers on balanced solutions that improve affordability and transparency, while protecting access to essential healthcare services for all Michiganders.
Members with questions may contact the MHA advocacy team.
Phone: (517) 703-8601
Fax: (517) 703-0628
