Dana-Farber is a member of the Health Equity Compact (HEC), a statewide coalition created to address health disparities in Massachusetts. The HEC legislation proposes 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. H1416 and S901, 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.

H1416 and S901, An Act to Advance Health Equity, call 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 to:

• Require insurance reimbursement for vital support services such as community health workers, patient navigators, and interpreter services to expand access
• 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 primary care and chronic disease management via telehealth by ensuring that reimbursement is at the same rate as an in-person visit.

WHY THIS MATTERS

• Our current health care system has failed communities of color, 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 improving access and quality of care.