Bill > S0648

This bill creates the Diabetes Prevention and Obesity Treatment Act, which requires the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to provide Medicaid coverage for diabetes prevention programs and obesity treatments starting January 1, 2026. The bill defines several key terms, including diabetes prevention programs (structured behavioral health change sessions aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes), intensive health behavioral and lifestyle treatments, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved obesity medications. For diabetes prevention programs, Medicaid will reimburse providers for recipients who meet specific eligibility requirements and have not previously participated in such a program. For obesity treatment, Medicaid must cover intensive health behavioral and lifestyle treatments, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved obesity medications. The services can be provided in various settings, including office, virtual, and community-based environments. The bill requires the agency to adopt rules, notify Medicaid recipients about these new coverage options, and allows the agency to seek federal approval through a state plan amendment or Medicaid waiver if necessary. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with implementation of the new coverage beginning January 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/648