Bill > SF233

This bill expands Iowa's Right to Try Act to provide broader options for patients with terminal or life-threatening illnesses to access experimental medical treatments. The bill introduces two categories of eligible patients: those with terminal illnesses and those with life-threatening or severely debilitating conditions, including a new provision for "individualized investigational treatments" based on a patient's unique genetic profile. For both categories, patients must have exhausted approved treatment options, received physician recommendation, and provided written informed consent that details potential risks and outcomes. The bill clarifies that manufacturers and eligible medical facilities are not required to provide these experimental treatments but may do so, and that health insurers are not obligated to cover the costs. The legislation also protects physicians from professional penalties for recommending these treatments and prevents state officials from blocking patient access. Additionally, the bill ensures that patients' heirs are not liable for treatment-related debts if the patient dies while receiving an experimental treatment. The expanded definitions and protections aim to give patients with serious medical conditions more treatment options outside traditional FDA-approved methods, while maintaining safeguards for both patients and healthcare providers.

Health And Human Services (S)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=SF233