This bill incorporates into Maine law many of the provisions contained in the proposed federal "Patients' Bill of Rights" legislation. The provisions govern the following:

1. Access to out-of-network providers;

2. Access to obstetrical and gynecological care;

3. Access to specialty care;

4. Continuity of care;

5. Access to prescription drugs;

6. Access to clinical trials;

7. Availability of independent external review of appeals;

8. Prohibition of financial incentives for providers;

9. Establishment of an independent nonprofit health care ombudsman program; and

10. Right of enrollees to sue health plans.