Bill > H1420

This bill aims to expand and clarify health safety net eligibility for uninsured and underinsured patients in Massachusetts by establishing new guidelines for determining financial assistance. Specifically, the bill allows patients with incomes up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL) to be eligible for reimbursable health services, with those between 200-400 percent of FPL potentially subject to a deductible. The bill also mandates that eligibility can be retroactive for at least 180 days prior to an application, giving patients more flexibility in seeking healthcare assistance. Additionally, the legislation creates a task force composed of healthcare experts, including consumer advocates, hospital representatives, community health center representatives, and health insurance plan representatives, to investigate and study the financial adequacy of the Health Safety Net Trust Fund. This task force is required to report its findings and recommendations to the state legislature within one year of the bill's effective date, with the goal of addressing potential funding shortfalls and improving the healthcare safety net for low and moderate-income residents.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1420