Bill > H1080

This bill addresses copay assistance for branded drugs by adding a new section to Chapter 175 of Massachusetts law. It defines key terms such as "branded drug" (a drug sold under a specific name or trademark), "equivalent drug" (an FDA-approved generic therapeutic equivalent), and "FDA" (the federal Food and Drug Administration). The bill restricts insurance policies from discontinuing or reducing coverage of a branded drug when an equivalent generic drug becomes available, requiring that the generic drug must be accessible in the commonwealth for at least three calendar months before such coverage changes can occur. To determine the availability of an equivalent drug, the Department of Public Health must evaluate factors including the number and geographic spread of pharmacies stocking the drug, the drug's supply level in the state, the prevalence of the condition it treats, and potential patient access barriers. The department is also authorized to create regulations to implement this new provision, which aims to protect patients from sudden changes in drug coverage and ensure adequate access to medication alternatives.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1080