Bill > H4043

This bill amends Massachusetts state law to establish guidelines for copay assistance programs offered by medication manufacturers. Specifically, the bill defines a "copay assistance program" as a financial assistance initiative that helps patients cover their out-of-pocket healthcare costs, and mandates that such programs be permitted for all Massachusetts residents. The bill requires manufacturers of both branded and generic medications to make these programs available to all patients who are prescribed a medication, regardless of their insurance status, with the exception of any restrictions imposed by federal law. Manufacturers must notify the Department of Public Health about their copay assistance programs, providing detailed program descriptions and eligibility criteria. The department is then responsible for ensuring that information about these programs is easily accessible to the public and healthcare providers. Importantly, the bill also protects manufacturers of generic medications and their suppliers from being fined or penalized for participating in these copay assistance programs, which could help make medications more affordable and accessible for patients across the state.

Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4043