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S 769

An Act providing continuity of care for mental health treatment

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill requiring insurers to maintain mental health treatment continuity during plan changes and provider transitions to prevent harmful care disruptions.

Hearing rescheduled to 09/09/2025 from 10:30 AM-12:30 PM in A-2 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · S 769

Legislative bill overview

S 769 aims to ensure continuity of mental health care for patients in Massachusetts by establishing requirements for insurance coverage and care transitions. The bill addresses gaps that occur when patients change insurance plans, providers, or treatment settings, ensuring uninterrupted access to mental health services.

Why is this important

Mental health treatment often requires consistent, ongoing care; disruptions can lead to treatment failures, crisis episodes, and hospitalizations. This bill attempts to prevent harmful gaps that occur during plan changes or provider transitions, which is particularly critical for individuals on psychiatric medications or in intensive treatment programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry cost concerns: Insurers may argue the continuity requirements increase administrative burden and costs, potentially raising premiums or reducing plan options
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: The bill's specific provisions aren't detailed in available summaries; disputes may arise over what constitutes "continuity," how long coverage must extend, and which treatments are included
  • Provider network limitations: Mandating continuity could strain networks if providers reach capacity or if patients must continue with out-of-network providers at higher costs to insurers or patients

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

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