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SD 3096

An Act relative to Medicare coverage of end-stage renal disease

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Gómez

Massachusetts legislation to expand Medicare coverage options for end-stage renal disease patients, though specific coverage expansions remain unclear from available records.

Referred to the committee on Health Care Financing
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Bill Summary · SD 3096

Legislative bill overview

SD 3096 proposes to expand Medicare coverage provisions for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Massachusetts. The bill appears to address gaps or limitations in current federal Medicare ESRD benefits, though the specific coverage expansions are not detailed in the available legislative record. This legislation would modify state-level policy related to how Medicare functions within Massachusetts.

Why is this important

ESRD affects approximately 750,000 Americans and requires either dialysis or kidney transplantation to sustain life—making comprehensive coverage critically important for patient access to treatment. Medicare is the primary insurer for roughly 80% of ESRD patients, so clarifying and expanding coverage can directly determine whether patients can afford lifesaving therapies. Any expansion of coverage may increase healthcare costs while potentially improving health outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable patient population.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and cost: Unclear what specific services or treatments would be newly covered and what the fiscal impact on state and federal budgets would be
  • Federal-state jurisdiction: Medicare is federally administered; Massachusetts legislation may face implementation challenges or require federal coordination
  • Coverage equity: Expanding coverage for one state may raise questions about national consistency and fairness across different regions

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

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