The proposed bill establishes a new section titled "Equal pay for healthcare providers" within various chapters of the General Laws. This legislation mandates that health insurance policies must reimburse for services provided by licensed nurse practitioners and physician assistants at the same rate as those provided by physicians, provided that the services fall within the lawful scope of practice for these healthcare professionals.

The bill specifies that reimbursement for services rendered by nurse practitioners or physician assistants in independent practice must match the reimbursement amount for similar services provided by physicians in the same area. It defines "independent practice" as the provision of healthcare services in a setting where the licensed physician assistant or certified nurse practitioner bills insurers using their own name and national provider identifier.

Additionally, the bill states that it does not apply to federally qualified group practice health maintenance organizations or insurers that employ healthcare providers on a non-fee-for-service basis. The executive office of health and human services (EOHHS) is required to apply to the United States Department of Health and Human Services for any necessary amendments to the state Medicaid plan or for any Medicaid waiver to implement these changes, with a deadline for submission set for October 1, 2026.

The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.