Balance Billing Laws in Missouri
Your medical billing rights and protections in Missouri.
Missouri enacted SB 716 (2020) providing surprise billing protections for emergency services. The law prohibits out-of-network emergency providers from balance billing patients and requires health plans to cover emergency services at in-network cost-sharing levels. Missouri's law works alongside the federal No Surprises Act.
Key Protections in Missouri
Emergency services: Missouri law prohibits balance billing for out-of-network emergency care; patients pay only in-network cost-sharing
Health plan coverage: Plans must cover out-of-network emergency services at in-network rates under Missouri law
Non-emergency services: Federal NSA extends protections to non-emergency services at in-network facilities
Filing Information
Within 2 years of the date of service for state-level complaints
Additional Notes
Missouri's state law focuses on emergency services. Federal No Surprises Act provides additional protections for non-emergency situations. The Department of Commerce and Insurance oversees state-regulated plans.
How to File a Complaint in Missouri
Gather Your Documentation
Collect your itemized medical bill, Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurer, any prior authorization documents, and written communications with the provider or insurance company.
File with the State Regulator
Submit your complaint to the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance. Include all supporting documents and a clear description of the billing dispute.
File complaint with Missouri Department of Commerce and InsuranceFile with CMS if Federal Protections Apply
If your dispute involves the No Surprises Act (emergency care or out-of-network providers at in-network facilities), you can also file directly with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
File with CMS No Surprises Help DeskRelated Articles
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