Bill > S2179

Introduced Session

This bill requires preferred drug lists under the Medicaid program, established pursuant to P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-1 et seq.), to provide for coverage of buprenorphine for treatment of chronic pain. Specifically, under the bill, a preferred drug list, drug formulary, or other authorized list of covered drugs implemented by the Division of Medical Assistance and Human Services within the Department of Human Services for the provision of pharmacy services under the Medicaid program or by a managed care organization contracted with the division to provide pharmacy services under the Medicaid program shall provide for the coverage of buprenorphine for the treatment of chronic pain, without the imposition of any step therapy requirement, provided that the buprenorphine is prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner who is authorized to prescribe that drug pursuant to State and federal law. The bill defines "chronic pain" as pain that persists or recurs for more than three months, and "step therapy requirement" as a requirement within a preferred drug list, drug formulary, or other authorized list of covered drugs for a beneficiary to use one drug before benefits for the use of another drug can be authorized.

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Fred Madden (D)*, 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 03/07/2022)

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