Bill > HB2677

This bill requires the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to provide Medicaid reimbursement for obesity and diabetes prevention treatments, expanding medical coverage in two key areas. For obesity treatment, the bill mandates reimbursement for intensive behavioral therapy (evidence-based lifestyle modification interventions), metabolic and bariatric surgery, and anti-obesity medications, with specific guidelines that these services can be delivered in-person or via telehealth. The bill defines obesity as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater and requires that anti-obesity medication criteria align with FDA-approved indications and CDC obesity classifications. For diabetes prevention, the bill requires reimbursement to programs recognized by the CDC's National Registry of Recognized Diabetes Prevention Programs for recipients who meet eligibility requirements and have not previously participated. The bill also specifies that utilization management for these services must be equivalent to other medical assistance program services. Additionally, the bill requires the Health and Human Services Commission to notify Medicaid recipients about new obesity treatment options and allows for federal waiver requests if needed for implementation. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive immediate approval.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2677