Bill > S882

This bill aims to enhance graduate medical education in Massachusetts by requiring MassHealth (the state's Medicaid program) to provide payments for post-graduate medical training in underserved areas. Specifically, the bill mandates that MassHealth create a payment system to support residency and training programs in community-based primary care, behavioral health, and other areas experiencing healthcare provider shortages. The payments can support training for various healthcare professionals, including physicians, family medicine nurse practitioners, dentists, and dental hygienists, with a particular focus on community health centers. The bill requires MassHealth to seek maximum federal reimbursement for these payments and to develop implementing regulations within 180 days of enactment. Additionally, MassHealth must prioritize training placements in community-based settings that serve a high proportion of public insurance patients and must consult with the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers during implementation. The overall goal is to address healthcare workforce gaps and improve access to care in underserved communities by supporting graduate medical education.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S882