Bill > SB048

This bill aims to address obesity and diabetes prevention by mandating comprehensive health coverage for large group health benefit plans in Colorado. The legislation requires these plans to provide coverage for obesity and pre-diabetes treatment, including the National Diabetes Prevention Program, medical nutrition therapy, intensive behavioral or lifestyle therapy, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved anti-obesity medications. The bill highlights the significant health challenges posed by obesity, noting that over 24% of Colorado adults experience obesity, with higher rates among communities of color. It recognizes obesity as a chronic disease that increases risks for numerous health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The legislation mandates that carriers offer policyholders the option to purchase coverage for FDA-approved anti-obesity medications, including at least one GLP-1 medication, and defines various treatment components such as intensive behavioral therapy and medical nutrition therapy. The bill provides detailed definitions for these treatments and specifies that interventions can be provided in-office, through telehealth, or in community-based settings. The coverage requirements will take effect on January 1, 2027, and apply to large group health benefit plans issued or renewed on or after that date, with the goal of improving health outcomes and potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs associated with obesity and diabetes.

Health and Social Services

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb25-048