Bill > S873

This bill enhances hospital closure and health planning regulations in Massachusetts by modifying several key aspects of state healthcare oversight. It establishes a more comprehensive health planning council within the executive office of health and human services, which will develop a state health plan every two years, create at least fifteen health planning regions, and assess healthcare needs across different geographic areas. The bill requires hospitals to provide 180-day advance notice before closing or discontinuing essential health services, and mandates that these hospitals submit detailed plans demonstrating financial sustainability, including needs assessments, implementation strategies, and evidence-based budgets. Additionally, the legislation strengthens reporting requirements for hospitals and the center for health information and analysis, introduces potential financial penalties for non-compliance, and requires hospitals to notify multiple stakeholders, including municipal officials, staff, labor organizations, and local legislators, before closing or reducing services. The bill aims to improve transparency, ensure continued access to healthcare services, and provide a more systematic approach to managing potential hospital closures or service reductions, with the ultimate goal of maintaining healthcare accessibility across different regions of Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S873