Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1082

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to fair access for qualifying patients

Impact

The legislation is poised to significantly impact the intersection of healthcare and cannabis regulations in Massachusetts. By allowing qualifying providers to receive reimbursement for their certification services, the bill helps to streamline the process for patients seeking access to medical cannabis. This move not only supports the financial viability of healthcare providers participating in the cannabis certification process but also promotes the medical use of cannabis by making it more accessible to patients in need.

Summary

House Bill 1082, popularly known as the Act Relative to Fair Access for Qualifying Patients, aims to ensure that healthcare providers who certify patients for medical cannabis under Massachusetts law can receive reimbursement from certain health insurance plans. The bill seeks to clarify the eligibility of healthcare providers for reimbursement for the certifications they issue, a crucial step in improving access to medical cannabis for patients who qualify under the current guidelines set forth in Chapter 94I of Massachusetts General Laws.

Contention

While the bill garners support from patient advocates and healthcare practitioners who emphasize the importance of equitable access to medical cannabis, it may encounter opposition from insurers concerned about the financial implications of reimbursing providers. Additional debates may arise regarding the regulatory framework surrounding cannabis in Massachusetts and its classification within the state's healthcare system. Furthermore, as the conversation around cannabis continues to evolve, the bill could ignite broader discussions about the role of cannabis in modern medicine and the adequacy of existing health plans.

Notable points

Notably, House Bill 1082 may follow the tracks of previous legislative efforts relating to cannabis and reimbursement, indicating sustained attention to this issue within the legislative framework. The bill is part of a broader movement to adapt healthcare policies to contemporary realities surrounding medical cannabis use, reflecting changing public perceptions and increasing acceptance of cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment.

Companion Bills

MA S698

Similar To Relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits

MA S718

Similar To Relative to insurance coverage of mobile integrated health

MA S805

Similar To Relative to association health plans

MA H1056

Similar To Establishing a commission to study maximum allowable costs lists

MA H4691

Replaced by Auto and health insurance

Previously Filed As

MA H1241

Relative to fair access for qualifying patients

MA S1082

To ensure access to medical cannabis for visiting qualifying patients

MA H1300

Relative to cannabis for Medicare eligible patients

MA H1240

Relative to insulin access

MA H2223

Relative to the Massachusetts lead law and promoting equal access to lead-free housing

MA H1941

Relative to employee fairness

MA H4073

Relative to fair medical debt reporting and collection

MA H2479

Relative to the Massachusetts lead law and promoting equal access to lead-free housing

MA H1193

Relative to requiring insurance providers cover a minimum of 30 days for in-patient substance abuse treatment

MA H1277

Ensuring students' access to academic transcripts

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.