Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H639

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Increasing awareness of community based PACE programs for older adults

Impact

The implications of HB 639 underscore a significant change in how older adults are informed about their healthcare options under Massachusetts law. The bill proposes amendments to the General Laws concerning elder affairs, particularly Sections 4 and 4B of chapter 19A, which would require that information about PACE programs be readily included in referral services. Additionally, it establishes protocols for pre-admission counseling and assessments of community-based service options for long-term care, greatly enhancing the state's commitment to integrating PACE programs into the long-term care framework.

Summary

House Bill 639 aims to increase awareness of community-based Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Massachusetts. This legislation seeks to amend existing laws related to elder affairs, specifically enhancing informational and referral services to older adults. By incorporating PACE program details, the bill acknowledges the importance of providing comprehensive healthcare options to the elderly, ensuring they are well-informed about available services catered to their needs. This initiative highlights a systemic effort to improve access to healthcare for older residents and offers support for maintaining their independence.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards better healthcare access for the elderly, there may be points of contention regarding funding and resource allocation for the proposed changes. Critics may argue about the necessity of expanding existing informational services and whether additional resources are adequately provided to implement such a program effectively. The success of the bill will largely depend on collaboration among various state agencies and the execution of the proposed measures to ensure that the elderly population benefits from the increased emphasis on PACE within Massachusetts healthcare policies.

Companion Bills

MA S367

Similar To To increase awareness of community based PACE programs for older adults

MA S370

Similar To Relative to intensive case management for clinically complex older adults

MA H634

Similar To Relative to expanding the availability of personal care homes for older adults

MA H630

Similar To Relative to intensive case management for clinically complex older adults

Previously Filed As

MA H2145

Establishing a minimum wage for employees of airline catering companies

MA H856

Assessing environmental justice in designated port areas

MA H3373

Relative to low income transit fares

MA H3735

Relative to Massachusetts identification cards

MA H854

Establishing the monitoring of ultrafine particulates

MA H2882

Promoting housing affordability through tax relief

MA H1280

Relative to advanced placement examinations and college credit

MA H1547

Codifying the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.