Bill > H280

This bill requires various insurance providers, including the state group insurance commission, MassHealth (the state Medicaid program), and private health insurance plans, to cover vision screenings for children within 12 months before entering kindergarten, as specified in the school health regulations. The screenings must be conducted by personnel approved by the Department of Public Health and trained in specific vision screening techniques developed in consultation with the Department of Education. Additionally, if a child fails the initial vision screening or has been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental delay, the bill mandates that insurance providers cover a comprehensive eye examination by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist of the parent or guardian's choosing. The examination must include a detailed report with diagnosis, treatment recommendations, prognosis, and evidence of any necessary follow-up treatment. The bill amends multiple chapters of Massachusetts General Laws to ensure this coverage is uniformly applied across different types of health insurance plans, including group insurance, hospital service plans, medical service agreements, and health maintenance organizations.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H280