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H 1383

An Act relative the use and impact of prior authorization for health care services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Vanna Howard and 2 co-sponsors

H 1383 examines and likely reforms prior authorization requirements that insurers impose on Massachusetts healthcare services to reduce administrative delays and improve patient access to medically necessary care.

Reporting date extended to Friday, July 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 1383

Legislative bill overview

H 1383 addresses the use and impact of prior authorization in Massachusetts healthcare, a process where insurers require pre-approval before patients can receive certain medical services. The bill examines the administrative burden, costs, and health outcomes associated with prior authorization requirements and likely proposes reforms to streamline or limit these requirements.

Why is this important

Prior authorization creates significant delays in patient care, increases administrative costs for healthcare providers, and can prevent patients from accessing medically necessary treatments. Studies show prior authorization denials and delays contribute to worse health outcomes, increased emergency department visits, and higher overall healthcare costs—making this a central tension between insurance cost-control and patient access.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider burden vs. insurer protections: Healthcare providers argue prior authorization creates excessive administrative work and delays critical care, while insurers contend it controls unnecessary procedures and costs
  • Patient access and equity: Prior authorization may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who lack resources to navigate appeals, but removing safeguards could increase unnecessary procedures
  • Scope of reform: Disagreement likely exists over which services should require prior authorization, approval timelines, and appeal processes—balancing consumer protection with practical implementation

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

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