The bill aims to enhance healthcare access for ostomy patients by amending various chapters of the General Laws to ensure comprehensive coverage for ostomy care and related medical supplies. Key provisions include mandating that the group insurance commission and Medicaid managed care organizations provide coverage for all medical supplies necessary for managing surgically created or spontaneous fistulas and ostomy care, without requiring the use of non-medical supplies. Additionally, healthcare payers are required to reimburse suppliers at a rate not less than the Medicare reimbursement rate. The bill also stipulates that if a patient changes health insurance, their ostomy care information must be transferred to the new insurer within 72 hours to ensure continuity of care, and that ostomy supply orders should not be delayed during this transition.

Furthermore, the bill establishes requirements for suppliers of ostomy supplies, including the obligation to notify patients and prescribers one month in advance of prescription expiration and any intended substitutions of products. It also allows physicians to prescribe supplies in quantities exceeding any imposed limits if deemed necessary for patient care, and ensures that fulfillment of prescriptions is not delayed by approval processes. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining high-quality care for ostomy patients and provides mechanisms to safeguard their access to necessary supplies and services.