Bill > S849

This bill aims to explore the feasibility of implementing a single-payer healthcare system in Massachusetts by establishing a comprehensive benchmark and evaluation process. The legislation defines key terms such as "single payer benchmark" as the estimated total costs of providing healthcare to all state residents through a unified public health care plan, and "single payer health care" as a system offering publicly financed, universal healthcare access. The Center for Health Information and Analysis is tasked with developing a methodology to create this benchmark, which must consider various factors like actuarial values, cost-sharing levels, and provider reimbursement rates. The center will monitor single-payer healthcare systems in other states and countries to inform its analysis. For three consecutive years (2025-2027), the center will produce annual reports comparing actual healthcare expenditures with the single-payer benchmark, with the first report due by July 1, 2027. If the reports demonstrate that a single-payer system would save money and expand care access, the Health Policy Commission must develop an implementation plan within one year, which may include proposed legislation. This plan must be developed through a transparent process involving at least three public hearings and seeking input from stakeholders across the state.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S849