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Medical patients in Nebraska will have the option to pay doctors directly for consultations and physicals rather than through insurance under a bill signed by Gov. Pete Ricketts.

The law allows medical practitioners to offer direct primary care agreements.

Supporters say the agreements minimize regulations and promote better relationships between practitioners and patients.

Some senators noted that because direct primary care agreements do not constitute insurance, users will likely need additional health coverage to comply with federal requirements.

The bill was introduced by Sen. Merv Riepe of Omaha, a former hospital administrator.