Bill > HB2528

This bill mandates that health benefit plans in Texas must provide coverage for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and substance use disorders without requiring prior authorization, except to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. The bill defines MAT as the use of specific medications like methadone, buprenorphine, buprenorphine/naloxone, and naltrexone to treat these disorders. It applies to a wide range of health insurance providers, including insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, nonprofit health corporations, and various other health benefit plan issuers. The bill specifically excludes state Medicaid programs and the child health plan program from these requirements. The provisions will take effect for health benefit plans delivered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, with the act itself becoming effective on September 1, 2025. By removing prior authorization barriers, the bill aims to make it easier for individuals struggling with substance use disorders to access necessary medication-assisted treatments.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2528