Bill > SSB1138

This Study Bill mandates that the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) conduct a comprehensive review of anti-obesity medications, specifically mentioning GLP-1 agonists, which are a class of drugs often used for weight management and diabetes. This review is intended to inform decisions regarding coverage for the state's medical assistance program, which provides healthcare for low-income individuals and families, and for health insurance plans covering public employees, established under Iowa Code chapter 509A. The departments are tasked with evaluating these medications based on their effectiveness in promoting weight loss, their impact on related health conditions (comorbidities), their potential to save money by reducing the need for future medical procedures or other medications, and proposed criteria for who should be eligible to receive them. The findings of this review, along with suggested eligibility requirements, must be presented in a report to the state's General Assembly by January 5, 2026.