Bill > H3986

This bill addresses delayed patient discharges by establishing new requirements for health insurance companies and hospitals in Massachusetts. The legislation defines a "delayed patient discharge" as a situation where a patient remains in a hospital bed beyond their medical treatment due to unresolved insurance issues or lack of post-hospital care providers. Health insurance companies will be required to employ dedicated care coordinators available outside standard business hours to facilitate discharge planning and provide real-time electronic access to patient insurance information. Hospitals must collaborate with insurers and use these electronic platforms to ensure timely discharges. The bill imposes penalties on non-compliant insurance companies, including fines up to $10,000 per documented instance of non-compliance and potential public reporting of violations. The state department will be responsible for creating rules, conducting audits, and preparing an annual report detailing the number of delayed discharges, compliance rates, and recommendations for improvement. The new requirements will take effect on January 1, 2026, with the goal of streamlining patient transitions from hospitals to post-hospital care facilities and reducing administrative barriers that can prolong patient stays.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3986