An Act to Preserve and Protect Public Health

This bill (HD 870) requires Massachusetts Medicaid providers to be reimbursed for administering vaccines at rates no lower than the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regional rates, starting January 1, 2026. It directly affects all providers (including pharmacies via pharmacy benefit managers) who give immunizations to Medicaid-eligible adults and children in Massachusetts. The key provision mandates that reimbursement rates for vaccine administration must match or exceed CMS rates, ensuring providers aren't paid less than federal standards. This change applies to all Medicaid-eligible immunizations covered under the state's program.