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Bill

H 1309

An Act assuring prompt access to health care

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tram Nguyen and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill requiring healthcare providers and insurers to guarantee timely patient appointment access to reduce wait times and improve healthcare delivery.

Hearing rescheduled to 04/29/2025 from 10:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-2 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 1309

Legislative bill overview

H 1309 is a Massachusetts bill aimed at ensuring timely patient access to healthcare services. The bill has been referred to the Financial Services committee and appears to address wait times and appointment availability in the state's healthcare system. As of late 2025, the bill is still in committee with a scheduled hearing.

Why is this important

Healthcare access delays directly affect patient outcomes, emergency room burden, and public health. Prompt access provisions can reduce unnecessary complications from delayed care and improve treatment effectiveness. This is particularly relevant in Massachusetts, which has a complex healthcare market with varying provider availability across regions.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "prompt": The bill likely specifies timeframes for appointments, which insurers and providers may argue are unrealistic given capacity constraints
  • Cost implications: Mandating faster access could increase healthcare system costs through required staffing, infrastructure, or reimbursement adjustments that may be passed to employers or patients
  • Provider burden: Healthcare providers may resist requirements that strain existing resources, particularly in rural areas or specialties with workforce shortages
  • Insurance company compliance: Insurers may face new administrative requirements to track and enforce access standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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