Bill > SB1844

This bill, known as the "Hope for Oklahoma Patients Act," aims to create a pathway for eligible patients in Oklahoma to access individualized investigational treatments for life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses when conventional treatments have been exhausted. An "eligible patient" is defined as someone with a serious condition who has considered all FDA-approved options and whose physician recommends a unique treatment based on their genetic profile, with the patient providing written, informed consent. An "individualized investigational treatment" refers to a drug, biological product, or device tailored specifically for a single patient based on their genetic makeup, such as personalized gene therapy or vaccines, but excludes illegal controlled substances and treatments derived from embryonic stem cells or abortions. The act makes it voluntary for manufacturers to offer these treatments and for health plans or government agencies to cover their costs, meaning patients are generally responsible for expenses unless otherwise contracted. It also provides certain immunities from civil liability for manufacturers and healthcare providers acting in good faith and exercising reasonable care, and protects healthcare providers from disciplinary action by licensing boards or Medicare certification entities solely for recommending these treatments, while prohibiting state entities from blocking patient access. The act will become effective on November 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1844&Session=2600