Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) have introduced the No Fees for EFTs Act, aimed at safeguarding patients and health care providers from fees imposed by electronic fund transfers (EFTs) and payment transactions. The legislation seeks to address the current situation where insurers charge health care providers between 2-5% for EFTs, despite the Affordable Care Act mandating health plans to offer electronic reimbursements to medical practices.

Dr. Cassidy, speaking on the bill, emphasized, "As a doctor who worked in hospitals for the underinsured and uninsured, I understand the burden unnecessary fees can have on patients and the health care system. The only thing doctors and patients should be focused on is providing and receiving the best care, not worrying about added costs associated with electronic payment methods."

Senator Cantwell also voiced her support for the legislation, stating, "This bill would block insurance companies from charging exorbitant transaction fees that are shortchanging reimbursement payments and burdening health care workers. Too many Washingtonians are already struggling with expensive health care without these unnecessary fees further driving up costs for providers and, ultimately, for patients too."

The introduction of the No Fees for EFTs Act has garnered bipartisan support, with companion legislation being introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Greg Murphy (R-NC-03), Kim Schrier (D-WA-08), Marianette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), Derek Kilmer (D-WA-06), and Ami Bera (D-CA-06).