Schneider Institutes for Health Policy
Research Publication Summary
| Citation: | Pryor C, Seifert R, Gurewich D, Oblat L, Rosman B, Prottas J (2003). Unintended Consequences: How Federal Regulations and Hospital Policies Can Leave Patients in Debt. Boston, MA: The Access Project and The Schneider Institute for Health Policy, Heller School, Brandeis University; June. |
| Abstract This study qualitatively explores if and how public and private policies contribute to the problem of consumer medical debt. To study these issues, the authors reviewed existing literature, and federal and state laws and regulations, and interviewed key informants such as hospital finance experts, Medicare officials, and hospital administrators. Study findings are preliminary but suggest that Medicare regulations and federal fraud and abuse laws may inadvertently inhibit providers from offering reduced-cost or free care and encourage providers to aggressively attempt to collect on patients' outstanding bills. State laws and regulations add an additional policy overlay to the complex set of forces that affect provider billing behavior, but state policies vary widely. Other findings are policy implications are discussed. | |
| More Information: | http:/ |
| Research Area: | Acute and Chronic Health Care |
| Core Competencies: | Financing, Organizations, Costs & Value |
