The bill H.185 proposes the establishment of a universal primary care program in Vermont, directed by the Green Mountain Care Board. The General Assembly recognizes the current inadequacies in access to primary care, the administrative burdens faced by primary care clinicians, and the rising costs of healthcare in the state. The intent is to improve access to primary care services, enhance the health of Vermonters, and reduce overall healthcare system costs. The bill includes specific provisions for the program, such as eliminating administrative burdens, providing universal access to primary care services without enrollment requirements, and defining the scope of primary care services to include mental health and substance use disorder treatments.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for the Green Mountain Care Board to develop and implement the universal primary care program, which will be funded through an allocation of premiums and public program funds. The Board is also tasked with reporting on the program's development and implementation by January 2026 and January 2027. The act is set to take effect upon passage, with the program expected to begin operations by January 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-9375(b), 18-9375