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HD 1256

An Act relative to uncollected co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carole Fiola

Bill regulates how Massachusetts healthcare providers can collect patient co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles, balancing debt recovery against financial hardship protections.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1256

Legislative bill overview

HD 1256 addresses the collection practices for patient cost-sharing amounts (co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles) owed to healthcare providers. The bill establishes regulations governing how and when healthcare facilities can pursue collection of these patient financial obligations. It aims to balance provider revenue recovery with patient financial protections.

Why is this important

Medical debt is a leading cause of personal bankruptcy and financial hardship for Massachusetts residents. This bill directly affects millions of healthcare interactions annually, determining whether patients face aggressive collection tactics, credit reporting, or legal action for unpaid cost-sharing amounts. The rules established here influence both patient access to care and provider financial sustainability.

Potential points of contention

  • Collection timing and methods — Debate over how long providers should wait before pursuing collections, what collection techniques are permissible, and whether debt can be sold to third-party collectors
  • Patient financial hardship protections — Disagreement over income thresholds for financial assistance, whether providers must offer payment plans before collections, and hardship waiver criteria
  • Provider revenue impact — Healthcare facilities concerned about uncollected revenue and administrative costs versus patient advocates worried about aggressive collection disproportionately affecting low-income individuals

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

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