This bill aims to enhance access to nurse-midwifery services by ensuring that certified nurse-midwives are compensated equally to physicians for services rendered. It amends several chapters of the General Laws, including Chapter 32A, Chapter 175, Chapter 176A, Chapter 176B, and Chapter 176G. Key provisions include the requirement that the payment rate for services provided by certified nurse-midwives must match the payment rate for the same services performed by physicians. Additionally, it stipulates that insurers cannot reduce the reimbursement paid to licensed physicians in order to comply with these new provisions.

The bill introduces new sections that mandate coverage for services rendered by certified nurse-midwives under various insurance plans, ensuring that both active and retired employees of the commonwealth, as well as individual and group subscribers, have access to these services. The amendments emphasize the importance of equitable reimbursement rates, thereby promoting the utilization of nurse-midwifery services and improving healthcare access for individuals in the commonwealth.

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