Establishes criteria for MassHealth hardship waivers for applicants facing undue hardship.

The bill amends Chapter 118E of the General Laws to include a new section establishing criteria for MassHealth hardship waivers. It allows nursing home residents to claim undue hardship to eliminate periods of ineligibility. A rebuttable presumption of eligibility exists if the resident meets certain criteria, such as insufficient resources and no less costly care alternatives. The Division of Health Care Financing must establish procedures for determining undue hardship, including notice, timely determination, and appeal opportunities.

Establishes criteria for MassHealth hardship waivers for applicants facing undue hardship.

The bill amends Chapter 118E of the General Laws to include a new section establishing criteria for MassHealth hardship waivers. It allows nursing home residents to claim undue hardship to eliminate periods of ineligibility. A rebuttable presumption of eligibility exists if the resident meets certain criteria, such as insufficient resources and no less costly care alternatives. The Division of Health Care Financing must establish procedures for determining undue hardship, including notice, timely determination, and appeal opportunities.