AARP Massachusetts State Director Mike Festa Applauds Passage of An Act Promoting a Resilient Health Care System That Puts Patients First

“AARP Massachusetts is pleased to report that Governor Baker signed into law Senate Bill No. 2984 –An Act Promoting A Resilient Health Care System That Puts Patients First. On behalf of our 760,000 members and all older Massachusetts residents, AARP Massachusetts appreciates the dedication with which our state’s leaders have responded to the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the ongoing efforts that will be required to implement this law as we move forward.

An Act Putting Patients First includes provisions for the following:

• Allowing for the continued use of telemedicine during this crisis and beyond, specifically addressing usage and parity for coverage for telemedicine services with the same services covered for in person visits by all payers.
• Authorizes qualified advanced practice nurses to practice at the height of their license and expertise. Advanced practice registered nurses are trained and educated to deliver safe, high quality care to consumers.
• Eliminates barriers for low-income residents seeking urgent care services.
• Expands coverage requirements for COVID-19 related testing and treatment.
• Enhances protections for patients against the unfair practice of surprise medical billing, protecting consumers against surprise bills from non-network providers who provide services without the consumer’s knowledge or consent in an otherwise in-network setting.
• Other reforms directed at lowering the cost of health care for consumers.
  

AARP Massachusetts looks forward to working with the Baker Administration to implement this law.”
Mike Festa, AARP Massachusetts State Director