Massachusetts Mandates Vaccine Coverage for Health Insurers

Massachusetts has become the first state to mandate that health insurance companies cover vaccines recommended by the state’s Department of Public Health. This new law, announced on September 5, 2023, aims to ensure that insurance providers will not limit coverage to only those vaccines endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has faced recent scrutiny from federal officials.

The announcement follows changes made to CDC recommendations by Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been under fire for his handling of vaccine policy. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) narrowed its recommendations for the COVID-19 vaccine, leading to bipartisan criticism during a Senate hearing where Kennedy faced questioning regarding these adjustments.

In a statement, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey asserted the state’s commitment to public health. “Massachusetts has the best health care in the world,” she said. “We won’t let Donald Trump and Robert Kennedy get between patients and their doctors. When the federal government fails to protect public health, Massachusetts will step up. The actions we are announcing today will make sure people can continue to get the vaccines they need and want in Massachusetts.”

Coalition of States and Support from Insurers

In a show of solidarity, a group of states led by Democratic governors, including California, Oregon, and Washington, recently announced plans to form a public health alliance aimed at providing “evidence-based immunization guidance.” Following their lead, Healey indicated that Massachusetts will collaborate with other Northeastern states to establish a similar coalition focused on vaccine policy.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans have expressed their support for the governor’s initiative. Insurance Commissioner Michael Caljouw emphasized the importance of this mandate, stating, “Today’s action ensures that everyone who should get a vaccine will get one, and their insurance will cover it. Our collective commitment—state government working with our health insurance companies—is important as we enter the fall season.”

Steps to Implementation

Healey outlined a three-step plan to implement the new coverage requirements. The Division of Insurance and the Department of Public Health issued a bulletin mandating that insurance carriers continue to cover vaccines recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Additionally, the governor has taken measures to facilitate access to the COVID-19 vaccine through pharmacies across the state.

As Massachusetts leads efforts in public health collaboration with neighboring states, the focus remains on safeguarding the health of its residents. The state’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary vaccinations, particularly as the fall season approaches and the risk of vaccine-preventable illnesses increases.