Bill > S834

This bill establishes a comprehensive Commission on Acupuncture and Wellness within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, composed of representatives from various state agencies, healthcare organizations, and professional groups. The commission is tasked with investigating how to better integrate acupuncture services into the state's healthcare system, with a specific focus on improving access, reducing healthcare costs, and enhancing care quality. The bill mandates that all health insurance policies in Massachusetts must provide coverage for acupuncture and oriental medicine treatments in four specific areas: pain management, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse treatment, and nausea. Additionally, the bill requires that insurance providers reimburse licensed acupuncturists and medical doctors at the same rate for acupuncture services, effectively preventing discrimination in reimbursement based on the type of healthcare provider. The commission is required to submit detailed reports to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Public Health Committee every six months, including findings, recommendations, and potential legislative actions to support the integration of acupuncture services into the broader healthcare system.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S834