Legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer, (R-Monmouth, Ocean) to require hospitals in New Jersey to notify observation patients of potential out-of-pocket costs was advanced by the Senate Health, Human Services & Senior Citizens Committee.
 
“Many patients admitted to hospitals for observation are not considered inpatients, so their insurance plans may not cover prescriptions otherwise covered if administered during an inpatient stay,” Singer said. “Often times, patients who suffer unforeseen out-of-pocket expenses after hospital observations suffer from chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.”
 
Singer’s S-2045 requires that general hospitals licensed in this state provide advanced written notice to patients admitted for observation, advising the patient of possible out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions and other expenses.
 
“This common-sense initiative also provides patients the opportunity to use their own maintenance medication for chronic conditions, if feasible,” Singer added. “I urge the full Senate to pass this bill immediately.” TLS-Press Release.