The bill amends several chapters of the General Laws to enhance coverage for dual diagnosis treatment services, specifically focusing on acute treatment services, clinical stabilization services, and co-occurring treatment services for individuals with substance use disorders. It establishes that coverage for these medically necessary services will be provided for up to 14 days without requiring preauthorization. The bill mandates that facilities must notify the insurance carrier of both the admission and the initial treatment plan within 48 hours, and it allows for utilization review procedures to begin on the seventh day of treatment. Additionally, it ensures that substance use disorder evaluations ordered under specific sections of the law will also be covered without preauthorization.

The bill replaces existing sections in Chapters 32A, 118E, 175, 176A, 176B, and 176G, specifically striking out outdated language and inserting updated definitions and requirements for treatment services. The new language clarifies the types of services covered and emphasizes the role of the treating clinician in determining medical necessity, which must be documented in the patient's medical record. Overall, the bill aims to improve access to essential treatment services for individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.