An Act creating parity for mental and behavioral health services
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to ensure that mental and behavioral health services are treated the same as physical health services under health insurance coverage. It seeks to establish parity, meaning insurance companies must cover mental health services at the same level as they cover medical services, without imposing higher cost-sharing requirements like copays or deductibles. The bill intends to improve access to and affordability of mental healthcare for all residents of Massachusetts. It addresses existing inequalities in coverage for these essential services.
Key provisions
- Requires health insurers to cover mental and behavioral health services at the same level as physical health services.
- Prohibits insurers from imposing higher cost-sharing (e.g., copays, deductibles) for mental health services than for comparable physical health services.
- Establishes a process for reviewing and addressing any disparities in coverage.
- Focuses on ensuring equitable access to mental healthcare services.
- Addresses potential barriers to accessing mental health care due to financial considerations.
Who is affected
- Individuals receiving health insurance coverage in Massachusetts
- Health insurance companies operating in Massachusetts
- Mental health and behavioral health providers in Massachusetts
- Patients seeking mental health services
- The healthcare system in Massachusetts
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
3 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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