Bill > SB455

This bill requires health carriers in New Hampshire to provide coverage for GLP-1 medications (a type of drug commonly used for treating obesity and diabetes) under specific body mass index (BMI) and health condition criteria. Specifically, health plans must cover these medications for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 35 or higher who also have at least one of the following co-morbidities: Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure/hypertension, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, or severe osteoarthritis. The bill represents an expansion of current commercial health insurance coverage models, potentially increasing the eligible population for these medications. While the fiscal note indicates that this could lead to higher overall health insurance premiums and potentially significant increased expenditures (estimated between $100-$200 million), it does not prevent health insurers from offering the coverage. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its passage, and it specifically applies to fully insured commercial health insurance plans, not self-funded health benefit plans like the State Employee Health Benefit Plan.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1403&inflect=2