The bill has been amended from its earlier version last year to include the following passage:

“Covered benefits must be provided for:

  • A. A prosthetic device determined by the enrollee’s provider, in accordance with section 4301‑A, subsection 10‑A, to be the most appropriate model that adequately meets the medical needs of the enrollee; and
  • B. With respect to an enrollee under 18 years of age, in addition to coverage of a prosthetic device required by paragraph A, a prosthetic device determined by the enrollee’s provider, in accordance with section 4301‑A, subsection 10‑A, to be the most appropriate model that meets the medical needs of the enrollee for recreational purposes, as applicable, to maximize the enrollee’s ability to ambulate, run, bike and swim and to maximize upper limb function.”

For the full text of the enacted version of HP 741, click here.

UPDATE (5/2/2022): HP 741 has passed through both the state Senate and House of Representatives, and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

UPDATE (4/2021): AOPA sat in on the Committee On Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services(HCIFS) Public Hearing and Work Session for on H.P. 741 in support of its members in Maine. Shelley Coull, PT, and Jordan Simpson, a patient advocate, both presented during the session.

H.P. 741 amends the existing law to include the following language: “Covered benefits must be provided for a prosthetic device determined by the enrollee’s provider, in accordance with section 4301‐A, subsection 10‐A, to be the most appropriate model that adequately meets the medical and recreational needs of the enrollee.”

The bill is slated to be referred for mandate review, but the committee suggested that stakeholders have an opportunity to provide input and answer questions regarding the language, prior to that referral. In Maine, any changes to existing insurance mandates or introduction of new mandates are subject to review for fiscal impact by the Maine Bureau of Insurance. The committee said that process would take up to 8 weeks, so in addition to referral for review, there will also be a motion to carry this bill over, so that it has time to make it through all the necessary reviews and committee votes prior to final chamber votes.

AOPA has connected with the sponsor, Representative Colleen Madigan, and will continue to work with her office in support of Maine members and the patients they serve. For additional information, please email Co-OP@aopanet.org