Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal, Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, released the following statement applauding the Center for Medicare and Medicaid’s (CMS) approval of the MassHealth Medicaid Section 1115 Demonstration (“1115 Waiver”).

“Massachusetts has long led the nation in innovative approaches to improving health care delivery.  From achieving near universal coverage to supporting our top-tier research institutions and hospitals, time and again, it has set the gold standard for a robust health care system. That was most apparent during the recent COVID pandemic. 

“This new 1115 Waiver will help further bolster the Commonwealth’s already excellent health care delivery system and help providers address the short and long-term physical and mental health impacts of the COVID pandemic and the health inequities it unearthed.

“I was pleased to convene the Massachusetts delegation with CMS/the CMS Administrator earlier this year to highlight the key goals underpinning the waiver such as enhancing value-based care, advancing health equity, supporting safety net providers, and continuing the Commonwealth’s impressive near-universal health coverage.  Hospitals and providers can continue to reimagine and improve care, particularly in the behavioral health area. 

“Under this waiver, patients can receive the best care possible no matter their financial status and health care providers have the tools to deliver it.”

Original source can be found here