New York law requires doctors to discuss treatment costs

New York has amended a law that originally prohibited health care providers from requiring patients to sign consent forms for medical bills before treatment. The new version allows providers to request consent again, but still mandates cost discussions beforehand. The law's implementation was delayed due to concerns from medical groups about payment logistics. Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed budget for 2026 would allow providers to require consent again, but it maintains the obligation to discuss costs with patients. Patient advocates argue that the changes do not adequately protect consumers from unexpected medical bills. They are pushing for a law that would require written cost estimates before treatment, limiting patients' financial liability.