Bill > S681

This bill aims to ensure trans-inclusive health care access by amending multiple chapters of Massachusetts law to establish consistent protections for gender-affirming care across different types of health care providers and insurance entities. The bill prevents these entities from rejecting written verifications or certifications from health care providers for gender-affirming care, unless the documentation fails to meet established clinical guidelines. Specifically, providers and insurers can only require one written verification that the care is needed for treating gender dysphoria. The bill defines a "qualified mental health care professional" as a mental health professional meeting the credentials, training, and standards of care for working with gender dysphoric adults and adolescents as established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The legislation applies to state commissions, medical divisions, insurers, health care corporations, and health maintenance organizations, effectively creating a uniform standard for accessing gender-affirming health care across Massachusetts' health care system. By limiting bureaucratic barriers and requiring acceptance of professional medical certifications, the bill seeks to improve health care access and support for transgender individuals.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S681