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Bill

S 716

An Act relative to telehealth parity for nutrition counseling

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr

Massachusetts bill requires health insurers to reimburse telehealth nutrition counseling at equivalent rates and terms as in-person services, improving access to preventive dietary care.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Health Care Financing
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Bill Summary · S 716

Legislative bill overview

S. 716 requires health insurance plans in Massachusetts to cover nutrition counseling delivered via telehealth at parity with in-person nutrition counseling services. The bill ensures that remote nutrition services receive the same reimbursement rates, frequency limits, and coverage terms as face-to-face appointments, removing potential financial barriers to virtual nutrition care.

Why is this important

Nutrition counseling is a preventive health service that can reduce rates of chronic disease, obesity, and diet-related complications. By establishing telehealth parity, the bill increases access for patients in rural areas, those with mobility limitations, and individuals with scheduling constraints, while potentially reducing healthcare system costs through preventive care. Insurance coverage parity also creates incentive for registered dietitians to offer virtual services.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost concerns: Insurers may argue that expanding coverage through parity provisions increases premiums or reduces profitability, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for consumers
  • Scope of covered providers: Unclear whether "nutrition counseling" covers services from all qualified practitioners (RDs, LDNs, nutritionists) or only specific credentials, creating potential disputes over provider qualifications
  • Frequency and duration limits: Parity language may conflict with existing visit limits or time-based restrictions, requiring clarification on what "equal coverage" means in practical reimbursement terms

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

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