HB 5127, An Act Concerning Medical Credit Cards

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE GENERAL LAW COMMITTEE

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning HB 5127, An Act Concerning Medical Credit Cards.  CHA opposes the sections of the bill that create additional hurdles for the use of a medical credit card as a source of payment for patients.

Connecticut hospitals make our state stronger by delivering nationally recognized, world-class care, supporting jobs and economic growth, and serving communities across Connecticut.  Every day, hospitals improve access, affordability, and health equity — providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.  At the same time, hospitals invest in their workforce and local communities, even as they navigate significant financial and federal challenges.

Hospitals are at the forefront of care delivery and rely on payment processes that are operationally flexible, accessible to patients, and do not impose undue administrative barriers.  HB 5127 seems to impose administrative hurdles on the use of medical credit cards when, in practice, medical credit cards function similar to other sources of payment.

CHA agrees with the principles of the bill that aim to prevent non-transparent credit card terms and targeted marketing efforts and kickbacks.  However, isolating medical credit cards as a method of payment could create barriers to patient access to care and hinder the financial operations of some providers.  Patients should be able to choose payment options that work for them to pay for their healthcare services and to cover their out-of-pocket costs.  Preserving choice and flexibility is important so that care remains accessible to those patients who prefer or need this payment method.

We would be happy to work with the committee to ensure that patients retain payment flexibility while also preventing non-transparent, unscrupulous credit card company practices.

Thank you for your consideration of our position.  For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.