Bill > H4490

This bill aims to prohibit discrimination against participants in the 340B Drug Discount Program, which is a federal program that allows certain healthcare providers to purchase outpatient drugs at reduced prices. The bill amends multiple chapters of Massachusetts law to establish protections for 340B-covered entities (such as hospitals, community health centers, and other qualifying healthcare organizations) and their contract pharmacies. Specifically, the bill prevents drug coverage plans and insurance companies from reimbursing 340B-covered entities or their contract pharmacies at lower rates or imposing different terms and conditions compared to other pharmacies solely because they participate in the 340B program. The bill prohibits discriminatory practices such as imposing different fees, professional dispensing fees, network participation requirements, or audit standards. Additionally, the legislation ensures that patients can choose to receive 340B drugs from their preferred 340B-covered entity or contract pharmacy without interference. The bill provides enforcement mechanisms, including allowing the Attorney General to investigate violations and the Board of Registration in Pharmacy to impose disciplinary actions, and classifies violations as unfair or deceptive practices under consumer protection laws.

Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Financial Services (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4490