Bill > HB27

This bill mandates that most health insurance policies and similar plans in Mississippi, including those from nonprofit corporations and health maintenance organizations, must cover treatments for diseases and ailments caused by obesity and morbid obesity, such as bariatric surgeries and prescriptions, starting July 1, 2026. This coverage is contingent upon a physician's written order confirming the individual's body mass index (BMI) is at least 30% above their ideal weight and that the treatment is medically necessary, and will also include related screening examinations and tests. The bill also specifies that patients should not face higher deductibles or coinsurance for these obesity treatments than they would for similar benefits, and if no similar benefit exists, the cost-sharing cannot significantly reduce the value of the required treatment. Furthermore, reimbursement rates for healthcare providers for these services must be at least as high as those under Medicare, and while plans are not required to refer patients to out-of-network providers, if they do, the patient will not incur additional costs beyond what they would pay for in-network care.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0027.xml