Bill Aims to Improve Patient Access to Necessary Medication Options

BOSTON – Monday, Senator Collins and his colleagues in the Massachusetts State Senate enacted H. 4929, An Act Relative to Step Therapy and Patient Safety unanimously. 

The goal of the bill is to limit the practice of “step therapy” within the Commonwealth, which has been criticized for steering patients towards cheaper medication options, as opposed to the ones they require. This legislation seeks to ensure that health care providers have the power to determine the most effective treatment plan for their patients without interference from the patient’s medical insurance provider. As a result, patients can start rounds of necessary medication without having to undergo multiple “steps” on cheaper prescriptions. 

“This marks an important step today in guaranteeing those seeking medical treatment throughout the Commonwealth will have fewer barriers to accessing the best treatment available to them.” Said Senator Collins. “I am sure the positive effects of this legislation will be felt throughout the state, and the First Suffolk District particularly so. I represent a diverse district with a wide range of needs, and we will continue working to ensure that the health and wellbeing of our constituents continues to improve.”