Bill > H788

This bill amends Section 9D of Chapter 118E of the Massachusetts General Laws to establish a new requirement for MassHealth Senior Care Options (SCO) programs when they contract with nursing homes. Specifically, the bill mandates that these programs must reimburse nursing homes for care provided to MassHealth members at a rate that is at least equal to the standard Medicaid fee-for-service payment rates outlined in 101 CMR 206, which governs standard payments to nursing facilities. The reimbursement must cover both room and board expenses and all additional rate supplements specified in the regulation. The purpose of this provision is to ensure that nursing homes have adequate financial support to provide critical services and to help facilitate smooth patient transitions from hospitals to nursing facilities. By setting a minimum reimbursement standard, the bill aims to improve access to senior care and support the financial sustainability of nursing homes participating in the MassHealth Senior Care Options program.