Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S761

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to hospital closures and health planning

Impact

The legislation will specifically impact the rules governing hospital closures and service discontinuance. It mandates hospitals to provide notice and submit a detailed plan to the state prior to closing or discontinuing any essential services. This regulatory requirement aims to prevent sudden reductions in healthcare access that could jeopardize public health, particularly in underserved areas. Hospitals would also be subject to penalties for non-compliance, reinforcing accountability in maintaining health services.

Summary

Bill S761, known as 'An Act relative to hospital closures and health planning,' aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding the operation and closure of hospitals in Massachusetts. The bill proposes the establishment of a health planning council within the executive office of health and human services, which will be tasked with developing and continuously updating a comprehensive state health plan that consolidates evaluation and provisioning of health services across the state. This council will assess the needs of different regions, making recommendations to ensure adequate health care resources are available where necessary.

Contention

Debate surrounding Bill S761 reflects concerns about the balance between state oversight and hospital autonomy. Proponents assert that the measures are critical for protecting community health and ensuring that residents maintain access to necessary healthcare services, particularly in light of financial distress facing many healthcare institutions. Critics may argue that such regulations could hinder the flexibility of hospitals in managing their operations and could discourage investment in the healthcare sector if the requirements are perceived as too burdensome.

Companion Bills

MA S736

Similar To Relative to the closing of hospital essential services

MA H4620

Replaced by Enhancing the market review process

Previously Filed As

MA S873

Relative to hospital closures and health planning

MA S736

Relative to the closing of hospital essential services

MA H1175

Relative to the closing of hospital essential services

MA S1503

Relative to the closing of hospital essential services

MA H2469

Relative to the closing of hospital essential services

MA H4773

Promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options

MA H4785

Promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options

MA H4999

Promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options

MA HB314

State hospitals; discharge planning.

MA SB179

State hospitals; discharge planning.

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MA S873

Relative to hospital closures and health planning