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HD 3495

An Act to improve patient access to prescription medication

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Nick Boldyga

Massachusetts bill proposes measures to reduce barriers preventing patients from obtaining prescribed medications through reforms like prior authorization restrictions or expanded pharmacy access.

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Bill Summary · HD 3495

Legislative bill overview

HD 3495 proposes measures to enhance patient access to prescription medications in Massachusetts, likely through mechanisms such as reducing prior authorization requirements, expanding generic drug usage, or improving pharmacy network coverage. The bill aims to address barriers that prevent patients from obtaining prescribed medications in a timely manner.

Why is this important

Prescription medication access directly affects health outcomes, particularly for chronic disease management and acute conditions. Delays or denials in obtaining medications can lead to disease progression, emergency room visits, and increased overall healthcare costs, making this a substantive public health issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Prior authorization reform scope: Disagreement over which medications should bypass prior authorization requirements, with insurers concerned about costs versus patient advocates seeking broader access
  • Generic drug policies: Tension between promoting lower-cost generics (which may limit branded drug sales) and patient preferences for specific medications
  • Cost implications: Uncertainty about whether expanded access increases overall healthcare spending and who bears those costs (insurers, patients, or state programs)

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

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