Massachusetts House Bill H4054

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/10/23
• Refer: 8/10/23
• Chaptered: 10/17/23
• Passed: 10/17/23

Caption

Relative to the rate of payment for certain MassHealth ground ambulance services

Impact

The implementation of HB 4054 is intended to bring consistency to the payment rates for ambulance services within the MassHealth program. By aligning the payments with Medicare rates, the bill aims to alleviate financial pressures on ambulance service providers serving this demographic. It reflects a significant shift in how ground transportation services are compensated, which could affect the financial operations of emergency medical services across the state.

Summary

House Bill 4054 specifically addresses the payment structure for ground ambulance services provided to members of MassHealth who are also Medicare eligible. Under this legislation, such services are mandated to be compensated at the applicable Medicare rate, overriding any general or special law to the contrary. The bill has been categorized as an emergency law, suggesting the urgency of its passage to ensure continued public convenience related to health care services.

Contention

While the bill appears beneficial by aligning payment rates, potential points of contention may arise regarding the impact on providers who could face challenges adjusting to a rate that may not cover all their operational costs. There may also be debates surrounding the extent to which this law could influence the availability and quality of ambulance services for MassHealth members, particularly in areas with a high demand for such services.