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H 1130

An Act relative to telehealth and digital equity for patients

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 23 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands telehealth access while mandating healthcare systems address digital equity gaps for underserved patients with insurance coverage and infrastructure requirements.

Accompanied a new draft, see H5017
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Bill Summary · H 1130

Legislative bill overview

H 1130 seeks to expand telehealth access and address digital equity gaps in Massachusetts by ensuring patients have meaningful options for remote healthcare services. The bill aims to remove barriers to telehealth adoption and requires healthcare systems to consider disparities in digital access among vulnerable populations.

Why is this important

Telehealth can improve healthcare access for rural residents, disabled individuals, and those with transportation challenges, while also reducing costs. However, without explicit equity provisions, telehealth expansion risks widening health disparities if low-income and underserved communities lack reliable internet or digital literacy support.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance coverage mandates: Requiring insurers to cover telehealth at parity with in-person visits may increase insurance costs, potentially raising premiums
  • Provider reimbursement rates: Healthcare providers may resist if telehealth reimbursement is set below in-person visit rates, affecting provider participation
  • Digital infrastructure investment: The bill may impose unfunded mandates on healthcare facilities to ensure broadband access without state funding mechanisms clearly defined
  • Quality and safety concerns: Some medical specialties may argue certain diagnoses cannot be safely delivered via telehealth, creating implementation complexities

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

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