A bill to ban anticompetitive terms in facility and insurance contracts that limit access to higher quality, lower cost care.

# Summary of S 4027 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would prohibit healthcare facilities and insurance companies from including contract terms that restrict patients' ability to access better quality or lower-cost medical care. In practical terms, it would ban "anticompetitive" clauses—contractual restrictions that prevent patients from choosing alternative providers or facilities even if those alternatives offer better results at lower prices. The goal is to increase competition in healthcare and give patients more freedom to seek out affordable, high-quality care options. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would directly impact healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, etc.), insurance companies, and patients.

It targets restrictive contract language that may currently lock patients into particular networks or providers regardless of cost or quality considerations. By removing these barriers, the legislation aims to encourage healthcare providers to compete on price and quality rather than relying on exclusive contracts to maintain market share. **Current Status** S 4027 was introduced by Senator Jon Husted (R-OH) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. No further action has been taken at this time.