For decades, Massachusetts has been a leader in healthcare reform. Just as we were able to lead the nation with landmark health reform in the past, we must apply the same innovation, commitment, and collaboration to make equity the next chapter of health reform in the Commonwealth. 

To that end, the Health Equity Compact (HEC) has been formed as a statewide coalition created with the goal of addressing disparities in health in Massachusetts. The HEC has filed legislation to propose innovative solutions and structural reforms to address racial justice and health equity across the Commonwealth. 

WHAT THIS BILL DOES

The work to advance health equity is broad and requires shared responsibility across many sectors to address the underlying social, economic, and environmental factors that shape our health. SB799 and HB1250: An Act to Advance Health Equity is a meaningful vehicle for advancing a substantial package of systemic policy changes that will support the fair and just opportunity for all residents of the Commonwealth to live healthy lives.

SB799 and HB1250: An Act to Advance Health Equity calls for urgent reform in three ways:

1. Prioritize Equity in Massachusetts State Government
2. Standardize and Report on Data to Advance Health Equity
3. Improve Access and Quality of Care

Examples of provisions in the bill include but are not limited too:

• Creating a new cabinet-level Executive Office of Equity, to be led by a Secretary of Equity for the Commonwealth
• Diversify gender and racial and ethnic composition within the leadership of key state agencies, boards, and commissions
• Direct state agencies to report publicly on data to identify disparities and track progress on addressing the social drivers of health in the Commonwealth
• Providing comprehensive Medicaid (MassHealth) coverage for all people who are otherwise eligible, regardless of immigration status, including children
• Maintain patient access to telehealth services for primary care and chronic disease management by ensuring those services are reimbursed at the same rate as an in-person visit
   

WHY THIS MATTERS

• Our current healthcare system has failed Black and Latinx communities for too long and this has led to unjustifiable and deadly inequities.
• Now is the time for innovative solutions to promote the equitable outcomes that all Massachusetts residents need and deserve.
• This legislation will codify the importance of health equity in Massachusetts state government while also improving access and quality of care.