Maryland's House Bill 765 aims to enhance transparency in hospital debt collection practices by mandating annual reporting requirements for hospitals. Introduced on March 12, 2025, the bill seeks to address growing concerns over how hospitals manage debts owed by patients, particularly in relation to racial and socioeconomic disparities.

Under the proposed legislation, hospitals will be required to submit detailed reports to the Maryland Health Care Commission. These reports must include the demographics of patients against whom debt collection actions are taken, including race, ethnicity, gender, and zip code. Additionally, hospitals must disclose the total dollar amounts of unpaid charges for services rendered, both for insured and uninsured patients. A significant new provision requires hospitals to report on debts sold to governmental units, contractors, or nonprofit organizations, detailing the total amount of debt sold, the payments received, and the number of patients affected.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates, with supporters arguing that it will promote accountability and help identify systemic inequities in healthcare access and billing practices. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential administrative burden on hospitals and the implications for patient privacy.

The implications of House Bill 765 are noteworthy. By shedding light on hospital debt collection practices, the bill could lead to more equitable healthcare policies and better support for vulnerable populations. As hospitals prepare to comply with these new reporting requirements, the data collected may inform future legislative efforts aimed at reforming healthcare financing and improving patient outcomes.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its potential to reshape hospital billing practices and enhance patient protections remains a focal point for stakeholders across Maryland. The next steps will involve further debates and possible amendments as lawmakers consider the balance between transparency and operational feasibility for healthcare providers.