An Act to increase access to nurse-midwifery services

This bill requires insurance plans in Massachusetts to pay certified nurse-midwives the same rate for covered services as they pay physicians for the same service. It directly affects insurers, health plans, and the Commonwealth's group insurance program by mandating equal reimbursement rates for nurse-midwife care. Key provisions include prohibiting insurers from lowering physician payments to offset midwife reimbursements and ensuring coverage for all state employees and private plan members. The policy change aims to improve access to midwifery services by eliminating financial barriers in insurance coverage.