An Act to increase access to healthcare for ostomy patients
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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 improve healthcare access for patients with ostomies in Massachusetts. It mandates that health insurers cover medical supplies for fistulas and ostomy care, prohibits the use of non-medical supplies, and requires continuity of care when changing insurance plans. The bill also addresses reimbursement rates for ostomy supply providers and ensures hospitals employ specialized healthcare professionals.
Key provisions
- Requires health insurers to cover medical supplies for fistulas and ostomy care.
- Prohibits the use of non-medical supplies for ostomy care coverage.
- Mandates a 72-hour transfer of ostomy care information to new insurers.
- Sets a minimum reimbursement rate for ostomy supply providers at or above the Medicare rate.
- Requires acute-care hospitals to employ certified healthcare professionals specializing in ostomy care.
- Allows physicians to prescribe ostomy supplies in quantities exceeding limitations.
- Requires suppliers to provide one month's advance notification of prescription expiration and non-medical product substitutions.
- Establishes a process for returning to original products if a substitute is unsuitable.
Who is affected
- Ostomy patients
- Healthcare insurers
- Ostomy supply providers
- Hospitals
- Physicians
Notable changes
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
13 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Financial Services
Cosponsors
Carmine Lawrence Gentile
Edward R. Philips
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