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H 4838

An Act expanding access to perimenopause and menopause care

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill expands perimenopause and menopause care access by removing treatment barriers and increasing provider capacity for symptom management and preventive care.

Accompanied a new draft, see H5303
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Bill Summary · H 4838

Legislative bill overview

H 4838 expands access to perimenopause and menopause care in Massachusetts by removing barriers to treatment and increasing healthcare provider capacity to address these conditions. The bill addresses a gap in reproductive health services by ensuring patients can more easily access preventive care, symptom management, and treatment options during these life stages.

Why is this important

Perimenopause and menopause affect millions of Massachusetts residents and can significantly impact quality of life through symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disruption, and mood changes. Many patients currently face delays in diagnosis, limited provider availability, and gaps in insurance coverage for treatments, leaving them without adequate clinical support during a critical health transition.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider capacity concerns: Expanding access requires training and hiring additional healthcare providers; unclear whether the bill adequately addresses workforce development or funding mechanisms
  • Treatment philosophy disagreements: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains medically debated; stakeholders may disagree on which treatment approaches should be prioritized or covered
  • Insurance coverage scope: Questions about which treatments, medications, and services will be mandated coverage under insurance plans and associated cost implications for insurers and premiums

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

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