Bill > S678

This bill aims to improve telehealth and digital equity for patients in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: 1. Prohibiting insurance carriers from imposing prior authorization requirements for telehealth services that are not required for in-person services. 2. Eliminating copayments for telehealth services. 3. Requiring coverage for interpreter services for patients with limited English proficiency or who are deaf or hard of hearing when accessing telehealth. 4. Establishing a "Digital Bridge" pilot program to provide funding for healthcare providers and patients to access telehealth technology and services, with a focus on underserved communities. 5. Creating a "Digital Health Navigator" program to help patients, especially those facing barriers, learn to use telehealth tools. 6. Forming task forces to explore interstate licensing compacts and reciprocity agreements for medical professionals to expand telehealth access. 7. Repealing certain previous temporary telehealth provisions to make them permanent. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance access to and affordability of telehealth services, particularly for underserved populations, in order to promote digital equity in healthcare.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S678