By adding Section 245 to Chapter 111 of the General Laws, this legislation requires health care facilities to provide necessary support and coordination for vulnerable patients to attend their appointments. This includes the provision of an appointment companion, who will assist patients in getting to and from medical appointments. Importantly, the legislation stipulates that patients will not incur additional costs related to their transportation, which aims to alleviate financial burdens that might otherwise prevent them from seeking care.
Summary
The Senate Bill S1613, also known as the Act to increase access to health transportation, aims to improve the availability of transportation services for vulnerable patients in Massachusetts. The bill specifically focuses on those who may face barriers in accessing health care, including low-income individuals, English language barriers, people with disabilities, the elderly, and those living in geographically isolated areas. The bill mandates hospitals and home health agencies to ensure that these individuals have reliable access to transportation for their medical appointments.
Contention
The overarching goal of S1613 is to enhance patient access to health services and improve health outcomes for populations that are often marginalized in the healthcare system. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of such transportation services, including the possible strain on existing hospital and home health agency resources. Stakeholders may debate the effectiveness of the proposed regulations and whether they adequately address all barriers faced by vulnerable patients. Additionally, discussions may arise surrounding the allocation of funding and support required to ensure the long-term sustainability of these transportation services.
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.