H.185 is a bill introduced in the Vermont General Assembly that aims to establish a universal primary care program under the direction of the Green Mountain Care Board. The bill emphasizes the importance of accessible primary care for the health of Vermonters and addresses the current inadequacies in the state's healthcare system, including administrative burdens on primary care clinicians and rising healthcare costs. The bill outlines the intent to improve access to primary care, enhance the health of the population, and reduce overall healthcare system costs.
The legislation includes specific provisions for the Green Mountain Care Board to develop and implement the universal primary care program, which will provide comprehensive primary care services without requiring enrollment in insurance plans. Key features of the program include reducing administrative burdens, eliminating cost-sharing for primary care services, and ensuring universal access for all Vermonters. The bill also mandates the Board to report on the program's development and implementation by January 2026 and 2027, with the program set to begin operation by January 1, 2028.
Statutes affected: As Introduced: 18-9375(b), 18-9375