The bill amends Chapter 40-8 of the General Laws regarding "Medical Assistance" by introducing a new section, 40-8-33, which mandates payment parity for primary care services. It defines key terms such as "primary care billing and payment codes," "primary care provider," and "primary care services," outlining the types of services that fall under this category, including care management, consultation services, health risk assessments, home visits, and preventive medicine visits.

The bill requires the executive office of health and human services to pursue a Medicaid state plan amendment, waiver submission, or any other necessary regulatory changes to ensure that Medicaid payment rates for primary care services furnished by primary care providers are increased to equal no less than 100% of Medicare rates, effective July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that Medicaid managed care organizations must pay no less than the rates established for primary care services and requires the executive office of health and human services to make necessary payment adjustments for providers participating in the Medicaid accountable entity program and community health centers to ensure they receive equivalent reimbursement increases.

The provisions of this section are set to sunset on June 30, 2027, unless extended by the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon passage.