Zero Copayment for Opioid-Related Doctor Visits
Given the serious problems stemming from opioid use in Massachusetts and many other states, Gov. Charlie Baker has urged health plans to adopt the practice of not charging copayments for office visits that relate to medication-assisted treatment that includes drugs such as methadone or Suboxone along with counseling. The intent is to remove a barrier that might preclude someone from seeking treatment.
The coalition of EdHealth schools, including Brandeis University, agreed to adopt this zero copay policy starting Jan. 1, 2018, for its health plans. Because it is a relatively new practice for our plans, it may be helpful for members to bring it to the attention of personnel in a doctor’s office if the visit is opioid-related.