Balance Billing Laws in Tennessee
Your medical billing rights and protections in Tennessee.
Tennessee does not have a comprehensive state balance billing law. Residents rely on the federal No Surprises Act, effective January 1, 2022, which provides protection against surprise medical bills for emergency and certain non-emergency care at in-network facilities.
Key Protections in Tennessee
Emergency services: Federal NSA limits cost-sharing for out-of-network emergency services to in-network amounts
Out-of-network at in-network facility: Surprise billing prohibited without advance written consent for non-emergency services
Good faith estimate: Providers must give advance cost estimates to uninsured and self-pay patients
Filing Information
Within 1 year of receiving the bill for federal NSA disputes
Additional Notes
Tennessee consumers rely primarily on federal No Surprises Act protections. The Department of Commerce and Insurance can provide guidance and assist with complaints.
How to File a Complaint in Tennessee
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 Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. Include all supporting documents and a clear description of the billing dispute.
File complaint with Tennessee 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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