Massachusetts House lawmakers are in the process of creating a healthcare bill that is slated to address out-of-network billing protections, according to a report published by The Daily News of Newburyport.
Here are five things to know about the evolving legislation.
1. The bill is named for Massachusetts Rep. Peter Kocot, D-Northampton, who died Feb. 22.
2. State House Speaker Robert DeLeo, D-Winthrop, said the bill will include new reporting requirements for MassHealth — which comprises the state's Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program, according to the report.
3. Under this provision, Mr. DeLeo told the publication MassHealth would be required to "report on how its services and supports are functioning" under the recently launched accountable care organization model, among other requirements.
4. Mr. DeLeo said the bill also will include consumer protections for out-of-network billing. He said it addresses tiered insurance plans, calling for "uniform methodology" regarding communication about such coverage, according to the report.
5. An exact timeline for the bill is unclear. However, Mr. DeLeo said in the report lawmakers will take up the legislation "in the coming months."
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