Bill > H1254

This bill expands the authorization for diagnosing and treating autism spectrum disorder beyond licensed physicians to include licensed nurse practitioners and licensed psychiatric nurse mental health clinical specialists across multiple sections of Massachusetts state law. Specifically, the bill modifies definitions in various chapters related to disability verification, pharmacy care, and autism spectrum disorder treatment to explicitly recognize nurse practitioners and psychiatric nurse mental health clinical specialists as qualified professionals. These changes apply to state health insurance regulations, including chapters covering state employee health insurance, private health insurance, and medical assistance programs. The modifications will take effect for all health insurance policies, contracts, and certificates delivered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027, with form filings subject to approval by the insurance commissioner. By broadening the range of healthcare professionals who can diagnose and treat autism spectrum disorder, the bill aims to increase access to care and provide more flexibility in healthcare service delivery.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1254