-
Who can get help?
If you get a surprise bill for services between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021:
The law applies only to state-regulated insurance plans. You have a state-regulated plan if:
- Your insurance card has “DOI” (for department of insurance) or “TDI” (Texas Department of Insurance) printed on them. See examples
- You are insured through the Employees Retirement system of Texas (ERS).
- You are insured through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) ActiveCare or TRS-Care Standard for non-Medicare retirees.
If you get a surprise bill for services on or after January 1, 2022:
The law applies to anyone with any type of health insurance except Medicare.
-
What bills are covered?
If you get a surprise bill for services between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021:
The law bans balance bills: (1) in emergencies, or (2) when the patient didn’t have a choice of doctors for medical services.
If you get a surprise bill for services on or after January 1, 2022:
The law bans balance bills: (1) in emergencies, (2) when the patient didn’t have a choice of doctors for medical services, or (3) for air ambulance services.
If you get a balance bill, visit our How to get help with a surprise medical bill webpage.
-
Can I still see the doctor of my choice?
The law doesn’t limit your options or change your health plan’s coverage for out-of-network care. If your health plan allows you to pick an out-of-network doctor, you can still do so. The law applies:
- In emergencies.
- When you didn’t pick the doctor (such as the radiologist who reviewed your X-ray).
- When you get air ambulance services.