Bill > S1582

This bill aims to improve Hepatitis C screening by modifying existing state law to require primary care providers to offer Hepatitis C screening or diagnostic tests to all patients over 18, with a few specific exceptions. Under the proposed changes, healthcare providers must offer the test unless the patient is being treated for a life-threatening emergency, has already been offered or received a Hepatitis C screening, or lacks the capacity to provide consent. The bill also requires the state department of health to develop and periodically update regulations specifying the screening requirements, including how frequently primary care providers must offer the test. Additionally, the department is mandated to create these regulations within 180 days of the bill's effective date. This legislation represents an effort to increase early detection of Hepatitis C, a serious viral infection that can cause liver damage, by making screening a standard part of primary care for adult patients.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1582