Bill > SB876

This bill requires the Maryland Medical Assistance Program to provide comprehensive coverage for obesity treatment beginning July 1, 2026. Specifically, the coverage must include intensive behavioral therapy, bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved anti-obesity medications, which are defined as medications approved by the Federal Food and Drug Administration for chronic weight management in patients with obesity. The bill stipulates that coverage criteria for these medications cannot be more restrictive than their FDA-approved indications, and the program may only use utilization management to determine medical necessity in the same manner as it does for other medical conditions. The Maryland Department of Health is mandated to provide written notice to program recipients about this new coverage by June 1, 2026, ensuring that recipients are informed about the expanded benefits. The bill aims to improve access to obesity treatment for individuals enrolled in the state's Medical Assistance Program by removing potential barriers to comprehensive obesity care.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0876?ys=2025RS