Bill > S718

This bill aims to eliminate cost-sharing (such as copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance) for substance use disorder treatment services across various types of health insurance plans in Massachusetts. The bill defines substance use disorder treatment comprehensively, including early intervention services, substance use disorder evaluations, outpatient services (including medically assisted therapies), intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization services, residential or inpatient services, and medically managed intensive inpatient services. The legislation applies to multiple types of health insurance providers, including the Group Insurance Commission for state employees, health insurance policies, hospital service plans, medical service agreements, and health maintenance organizations. Providers must be certified or licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and no pre-authorization will be required for these services. There is a notable exception that allows cost-sharing if eliminating it would cause a health plan to lose its tax-exempt status under the Federal Internal Revenue Code. By removing financial barriers, the bill seeks to make substance use disorder treatment more accessible and affordable for individuals seeking help, potentially encouraging more people to seek necessary medical treatment for addiction and related mental health challenges.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S718