MA S1581

Prohibits health care providers from knowingly violating Department of Public Health rules at the direct request of a patient, caregiver, or other interested person, with violations requiring reporting within 72 hours

Bans providers from designating or conferring special patient status based on socio-economic status or direct relationship to the provider, rather than medical necessity

Establishes fines of up to $5,000 per violation for rule violations or improper VIP designations, with complaints potentially filed to relevant licensing boards

Imposes penalties up to $50,000 per violation for health care providers who fail to report violations as required

Provides whistleblower protections for providers who report violations, shielding them from retaliatory action under Chapter 149, Section 187