Bill > HB262

This bill creates the "Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment and Recovery Act" to establish a state fund and program for providing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI). The bill defines key terms and sets up a comprehensive framework for implementing alternative therapies, specifically HBOT, for veterans. Under the legislation, eligible facilities can receive reimbursement from a newly created state fund for providing HBOT to veterans, provided they meet strict conditions such as obtaining proper medical prescriptions, following treatment protocols, conducting cognitive testing before and after therapy, and ensuring the veteran is not charged for the treatment. The bill requires facilities to submit detailed reports on treatment outcomes and veteran demographics, and protects healthcare practitioners from professional repercussions for recommending or providing this therapy. The Missouri Veterans Commission will manage the fund, seek potential reimbursements from federal agencies like the Department of Defense and Veterans Health Administration, and must prepare annual reports detailing the program's implementation and effectiveness. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that veterans will receive this therapy at no cost and that the treatment must be voluntary and based on a healthcare practitioner's recommendation.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB262&year=2025&code=R