Bill > H253

This bill proposes several changes to Massachusetts law regarding guardians and medical care for incapacitated persons. The bill expands the definition of "Provider" to include guardians who are duly appointed and engaged in activities related to medical care for eligible members, while specifically excluding immediate family members from this definition. It requires the state secretary to establish payment rates for social service programs and guardians that consider factors such as governmental mandates, customary professional guardian rates, cost adjustments for inflation, and geographic differences in expenses. The bill also mandates that guardian claims for medical services be disclosed to the appointing court as part of their annual report, though judicial approval is not required for reimbursement. Additionally, the bill streamlines administrative processes by requiring guardians to indicate their intention to participate in medical assistance programs no more than once every 12 months and to provide evidence of qualification, including a recent certificate of appointment and a sworn statement confirming no immediate family relationship with the member. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines and support for guardians providing medical care to incapacitated individuals while ensuring appropriate oversight and reimbursement.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H253