Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1217

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

Impact

If enacted, HB 1217 will modify various provisions of Chapters 29 and 118E of the general laws, establishing clearer guidelines for funding distributions. Specifically, it introduces a 'supplemental surcharge amount' that corresponds to revenue shortfalls in the Health Safety Net Trust Fund, calculated as 50 percent of the estimated annual revenue shortfall. This financial mechanism aims to create a buffer that can absorb funding discrepancies and ensure continued operation and support for healthcare providers serving vulnerable populations.

Summary

House Bill 1217 aims to enhance the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net in Massachusetts. The bill proposes amendments to existing laws to ensure adequate funding for health services provided by acute hospitals and community health centers. Notably, it emphasizes the importance of transferring funds to the Health Safety Net Trust Fund to cover reimbursable health services rendered to uninsured and underinsured residents, thereby securing needed financial support for these facilities.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 1217 is expected to center on the adequacy of funding mechanisms and the implications of increased surcharges on healthcare providers. Proponents argue that the bill will provide essential and stable funding resources, promoting broader access to healthcare services. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the potential financial burden on hospitals, especially smaller or rural facilities that already face operational challenges. They may argue that these supplementary charges could have adverse effects on their financial health and service delivery.

Companion Bills

MA S811

Similar To To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

MA H4634

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA S811

To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

MA S917

To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

MA H1354

To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

MA H1420

To prevent medical debt by restoring health safety net eligibility levels

MA S852

Preventing medical debt by restoring health safety net eligibility levels

MA H1350

To address medical debt through hospital financial assistance reform

MA S842

To address medical debt through hospital financial assistance reform

MA H1373

Relative to establishing a health safety net task force

MA H1204

Relative to establishing a health safety net task force

MA H1181

To redirect excessive health insurer reserves to support health care safety net programs

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.