Bill > H1101

This bill aims to improve telehealth coverage and digital equity for patients in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Prohibiting insurance carriers from imposing prior authorization requirements for medically necessary telehealth services that do not apply to in-person services. 2. Eliminating co-payment requirements 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 support telehealth access, including funding for telecommunications, devices, and connectivity for providers and patients. 5. Creating a Digital Health Navigator Tech Literacy Pilot Program to provide hands-on assistance to patients in using telehealth tools, with a focus on underserved populations. 6. Tasking state agencies with analyzing and making recommendations on interstate medical licensure compacts and reciprocity agreements to facilitate telehealth across state lines. The bill aims to remove barriers and improve access to telehealth services, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations, as part of the state's efforts to promote digital equity in healthcare.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H1101