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HD 731

An Act relative to patient access to information regarding breast reconstructive surgery

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Galvin

Massachusetts requires health insurers to provide patients comprehensive information about breast reconstruction surgery options and coverage before treatment decisions.

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Bill Summary · HD 731

Legislative bill overview

HD 731 requires health insurers in Massachusetts to provide patients with information about breast reconstructive surgery options, coverage details, and the reconstructive process before treatment decisions are made. The bill mandates that insurers deliver this information in an accessible format and within a specified timeframe.

Why is this important

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a significant decision affecting patients' physical and emotional wellbeing, yet many patients report insufficient information about their options and insurance coverage. This bill aims to ensure informed decision-making by guaranteeing transparent, timely access to critical information that may currently be difficult or time-consuming to obtain.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry compliance costs: Insurers may argue that creating and distributing standardized informational materials increases administrative burden and costs, which could be passed to consumers through premium increases
  • Definition of "accessible format": The bill's practical implementation depends on how strictly "accessible format" is defined—requirements for multiple languages, literacy levels, or digital accessibility could significantly expand costs
  • Timeline feasibility: Mandating information delivery within tight timeframes may be challenging in urgent cases or when patients are already mid-treatment, raising questions about realistic implementation

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

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