Bill > H5143

This bill aims to improve treatment and coverage for substance use disorder in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: - Requiring the Group Insurance Commission to develop a plan for adequate coverage of non-medication and non-opioid pain management services, and prohibiting prior authorization requirements for certain non-opioid treatments. - Mandating coverage for opioid antagonists (like naloxone) without prior authorization or cost-sharing, and requiring certain facilities to provide opioid antagonists to patients upon discharge. - Establishing a licensing program for recovery coaches and alcohol/drug counselors, with requirements for education, training, and ongoing continuing education. - Expanding access to auricular acupuncture detoxification services provided by qualified health professionals. - Requiring Medicaid and private insurers to cover recovery coach services and opioid antagonists without prior authorization or cost-sharing. - Enhancing data collection and reporting on infants affected by prenatal substance exposure. - Studying and addressing barriers to certification and employment of recovery coaches, as well as disparities in substance use disorder treatment and outcomes. The bill also establishes commissions to study issues related to xylazine and benzodiazepine prescribing, and provides timelines for implementation of various provisions.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H5143