America’s Health Insurance Plans Issues Statement on No Surprises Act

WASHINGTON, May 14 -- America's Health Insurance Plans issued the following statement by President and CEO Matt Eyles after the introduction of the No Surprises Act by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, D-New Jersey, and Ranking Member Greg Walden, R-Oregon:

"Every American deserves affordable, high-quality coverage and care, as well as control over their own health care choices. Surprise medical bills stand in the way of this commitment, which is why health insurance providers have been advocating for federal legislation that will protect patients from these unexpected and unjustified costs.

"We applaud Chairman Pallone and Rep. Walden for coming together in a bipartisan way to protect the health and financial security of Americans through the No Surprises Act. This draft bill would ensure patients are protected; that doctors are paid fairly; that networks are supported; and that the free market is permitted to work to ensure affordable, high-quality care. This bill will go a long way to protect American consumers and patients, and we look forward to continuing to work with all members of Congress and the Administration on real solutions.

"Consumers, businesses, brokers, and health insurance providers agree: Patients should not receive a surprise bill for care they did not choose - or didn't even know they received in the first place. And Americans shouldn't see their premiums go up because of the actions of a few specialty doctors. By working together and putting the best interests of patients first, we can improve health and reduce costs."