Oregon Medical Bill Rights

42 U.S.C. § 300gg-111 (No Surprises Act)

Federal law (effective January 1, 2022) prohibits surprise out-of-network bills for emergency services, air ambulance services, and most non-emergency services at in-network facilities. Patients owe no more than the in-network cost-share. Providers and insurers must resolve payment disputes through Independent Dispute Resolution, not by billing the patient.

Or. Rev. Stat. § 743B.287 (Out-of-Network Balance Billing)

Oregon prohibits balance billing for emergency services and inadvertent out-of-network services at in-network facilities. The Department of Consumer and Business Services administers dispute resolution.

26 U.S.C. § 501(r) (Nonprofit Hospital Financial Assistance Requirement)

Federal law requires every nonprofit (501(c)(3)) hospital to maintain a written Financial Assistance Policy, publicize it widely, and screen all uninsured/underinsured patients for eligibility before sending unpaid bills to collections. Patients eligible for assistance cannot be charged more than the Amounts Generally Billed (AGB) to insured patients. Applies to roughly 3,000 nonprofit hospitals (about 58% of all US hospitals, 80% of beds).

Or. Rev. Stat. § 442.612 (Hospital Financial Assistance)

Oregon hospitals must provide free care to patients earning up to 200% of federal poverty level and discounted care up to 400% FPL. Hospitals must screen patients before billing or collections.

15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act)

Federal law restricts how third-party debt collectors may contact consumers about medical or other debts. Consumers may demand written validation of any debt within 30 days of first contact; collectors must cease communication if requested in writing; harassment, deception, and unfair practices are prohibited.

Or. Rev. Stat. § 441.605

Oregon hospitals must provide an itemized statement of charges upon the patient's request, identifying each service rendered.