Bill > H1012

This bill proposes changes to how medical providers are paid for services related to workers' compensation claims, specifically by amending existing laws in Massachusetts. The key provision is that when setting payment rates for health care services deemed compensable under workers' compensation (chapter 152 of the General Laws), the relevant state agency, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) or a designated unit, must consult with the Commissioner of Insurance. This Commissioner will then certify that any increase in these provider rates will not negatively impact employers' workers' compensation insurance rates and premiums. Additionally, the bill clarifies that while the EOHHS or a designated unit establishes the standard payment rates, insurers, employers, and providers can agree to different rates, and it explicitly states that any collusion among providers to inflate rates beyond those established under chapter 118G would be a violation of chapter 93A, which deals with unfair and deceptive trade practices.