The bill aims to enhance access and care coordination for individuals suffering from chronic pain, particularly those enrolled in Medicaid managed care organizations. It introduces a new section in Chapter 118E of the General Laws that mandates coverage for non-opioid pain medications, ensuring that these medications are not disadvantaged compared to opioid drugs. This includes prohibiting the designation of non-opioid drugs as non-preferred and restricting the use of more stringent utilization management procedures for non-opioid medications. Additionally, the bill requires the division of medical assistance to provide comprehensive integrated care management for chronic pain patients, which encompasses a range of services from primary care to specialized treatment providers.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section in Chapter 12C that focuses on data collection regarding the incidence and prevalence of chronic pain in the Commonwealth. It mandates the center to utilize existing federal and state data to clarify the impact of chronic pain and identify gaps in research. The center is tasked with publishing a report every two years that details the demographics, risk factors, and treatment costs associated with chronic pain, as well as recommendations for addressing identified data gaps. This comprehensive approach aims to improve the quality of care and support for individuals living with chronic pain.