To facilitate timely access to quality health care by expanding access to patient navigation
Impact
If enacted, H1173 will amend Chapter 118E of the General Laws, instituting new provisions for patient navigation services. Coverage for these services will be mandatory for insurers and health plans, further aligning with the goals of improved health outcomes and enhanced patient support. This legislation represents a significant step towards integrating community health workers into the healthcare delivery system, thereby bolstering preventive care efforts and ensuring that patients navigate health services effectively.
Summary
House Bill 1173, titled 'An Act to facilitate timely access to quality health care by expanding access to patient navigation', seeks to enhance healthcare accessibility by establishing and expanding patient navigation services. The bill aims to utilize community health workers as intermediaries to bridge gaps between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring individuals can access the necessary health-related services. This initiative is particularly targeted at chronic disease prevention and management, with a robust focus on addressing social determinants of health that affect individuals' ability to receive care.
Contention
Discussion around H1173 may include debates on the funding mechanisms and administrative burdens associated with expanding these services. Opponents of such legislation may raise concerns regarding the sustainability of funding for community health workers and whether the bill adequately addresses the need for comprehensive training and support. Nevertheless, proponents argue that enabling patient navigation will ultimately lead to significant cost savings for the healthcare system through improved health outcomes and reduced emergency care usage.