Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1011

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
3/7/24  

Caption

Relative to fair and equitable compensation for medical services

Impact

The primary impact of H1011 is in the regulatory landscape of health insurance reimbursement for medical providers. By establishing a clearer guideline that prevents carriers from reducing reimbursements based on the bundling of services, the bill stands to enhance the financial stability of healthcare providers. This could potentially lead to an increase in the willingness of healthcare professionals to provide a broader array of services, knowing they will be fairly compensated regardless of how those services are billed in relation to one another.

Summary

House Bill 1011 aims to address issues related to fair and equitable compensation for medical services in Massachusetts. This bill seeks to amend Chapter 176O of the General Laws by prohibiting health insurance carriers from reducing negotiated payment rates for evaluation and management services when those services are billed alongside other healthcare services provided on the same day. The goal of the bill is to ensure medical providers receive fair compensation for the full range of services they offer, especially in situations where multiple services are billed simultaneously.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill have included concerns from insurance providers who argue that the changes could lead to higher overall costs for health plans and potentially increase premiums for consumers. Critics of H1011 may suggest that the bill does not address underlying problems in the healthcare reimbursement system, while proponents assert that it addresses a vital inequity that could improve care quality. Legislative debates are likely to spotlight these differing perspectives as the bill progresses.

Additional_comments

Overall, H1011 represents an important step towards protecting healthcare providers against unfair reimbursement practices. As discussions evolve, it will be crucial to weigh the impacts on both providers and consumers within the broader context of healthcare reform in the state.

Companion Bills

MA S699

Similar To Relative to fair and equitable compensation for medical services

MA S1324

Similar To Relative to EMS leave without loss of pay

MA H1997

Similar To To further define medical necessity determinations

MA S2739

Similar To Relative to emergency medical services oversight.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.