Bill > S474

This bill directs the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services to pursue federal approval for new Medicaid options that would allow eligible older adults to choose assisted living residences instead of nursing homes. Specifically, the bill requires the state to submit applications for state plan amendments or waivers within 90 days of the act's effective date to establish an assisted living service for Medicaid-qualifying individuals at risk of nursing home placement. The proposed service must have a daily rate that does not exceed 80% of equivalent institutional care costs, and must use payment methodologies to ensure equal economic access. Within 120 days, the office must report to legislative committees on the status of these applications, exploring three potential approaches: amending the existing frail elder waiver, creating a new home and community-based services waiver, or enabling assisted living through managed care "in lieu of services" options, drawing inspiration from Medicaid programs in the District of Columbia, Ohio, and California. Additionally, within 180 days, the Executive Office of Aging and Independence must report on current barriers preventing MassHealth members from accessing assisted living residences, with particular attention to residents in qualified census tracts or difficult development areas.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S474