On April 3, 2025, the Florida State Legislature introduced House Bill 815, a significant piece of legislation aimed at increasing transparency within managed care plans. The bill mandates that managed care plans analyze and report on their referral practices, specifically focusing on whether they direct patients to providers or organizations in which they have a financial interest.

The primary objective of House Bill 815 is to ensure that patients receive unbiased referrals for medical services. The bill requires managed care plans to assess the extent to which they steer patients towards providers they own or have a profit-sharing arrangement with. This analysis must also compare the costs of services provided through these referrals against those offered by other contracted providers. By July 1, 2026, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration is tasked with submitting a comprehensive report on these findings to key state leaders, including the Governor and legislative leaders.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates. Proponents argue that it will enhance patient choice and potentially lower healthcare costs by promoting competition among providers. However, some stakeholders express concerns about the administrative burden this analysis may impose on managed care organizations and the potential for unintended consequences in patient care.

The implications of House Bill 815 could be far-reaching. If enacted, it may lead to increased scrutiny of managed care practices and encourage more equitable healthcare access for Florida residents. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on the state's healthcare landscape will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending approval from the legislature.