Bill > S818

This bill eliminates the requirement for patients to obtain a referral or prior authorization from a primary care provider (PCP) when seeking certain specialty gynecological care. Specifically, the legislation removes barriers for patients accessing care from obstetricians, gynecologists, certified nurse-midwives, or family practitioners within a health insurance carrier's network for several key types of medical services. These services include annual preventive gynecologic health examinations, follow-up services determined to be medically necessary after such exams, preventative and menstrual health care for conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding and pelvic pain, maternity care, and medically necessary evaluations and treatments for acute or emergency gynecological conditions. By modifying existing law in chapter 176O of the General Laws, the bill aims to improve women's direct access to specialized gynecological healthcare without needing to first obtain a referral from their primary care provider, potentially making healthcare more efficient and convenient for patients.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S818