Balance Billing Laws in Oregon
Your medical billing rights and protections in Oregon.
Oregon enacted the Surprise Medical Billing law (SB 889, 2019 / ORS 743B.523) which prohibits balance billing for emergency services and for non-emergency services at in-network facilities when patients have no meaningful choice of provider. Oregon's law establishes protections and a dispute resolution process, building on earlier consumer protections in Oregon insurance law.
Key Protections in Oregon
Emergency services: Balance billing prohibited under ORS 743B.523; patients pay only in-network cost-sharing
Non-emergency care at in-network facilities: Protected from balance billing when patient had no meaningful choice of out-of-network provider
Dispute resolution: Oregon Insurance Division administers a state dispute resolution process
Transparency: Providers must disclose network status and estimated costs before scheduled non-emergency services
Filing Information
Within 2 years of the date of service for state-level complaints
Additional Notes
Oregon's surprise billing law applies to state-regulated health plans. Federal NSA applies to self-funded employer plans. The Oregon Health Authority also has resources for Medicaid consumers.
How to File a Complaint in Oregon
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 Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR). Include all supporting documents and a clear description of the billing dispute.
File complaint with Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR)File 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.
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