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H 4961

An Act to increase access to healthcare for ostomy patients

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 11 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands healthcare access and coverage for ostomy patients to reduce financial barriers to medically necessary supplies and care.

Reporting date extended to Thursday, December 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 4961

Legislative bill overview

H 4961 seeks to improve healthcare access specifically for ostomy patients in Massachusetts through legislative measures reported favorably by the Financial Services Committee. The bill has advanced to the Health Care Financing Committee, indicating focus on coverage, reimbursement, or cost-related barriers. Ostomy patients require specialized medical supplies and ongoing care following surgeries that create permanent or temporary openings in the abdomen.

Why is this important

Ostomy patients face significant out-of-pocket costs for essential supplies (pouches, barriers, skin care products) that are medically necessary but often inadequately covered by insurance plans. Access barriers directly impact quality of life, infection prevention, and skin health for thousands of Massachusetts residents. Legislative action can standardize coverage requirements and reduce financial burden on this population.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance mandate scope: Disagreement over which supplies should be covered, how frequently, and at what cost-sharing levels between patient advocates, insurers, and manufacturers
  • Cost and funding: Questions about whether expanded coverage increases insurance premiums for all subscribers or requires state budget reallocation
  • Definition and eligibility: Determining which patients qualify (temporary vs. permanent ostomies) and whether coverage extends to all ostomy types (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy)

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

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