Bill > SB496

This bill authorizes the Maryland Medical Assistance Program to provide comprehensive coverage for the treatment of obesity starting January 1, 2027, which includes intensive behavioral therapy, bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved medications for chronic weight management. The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is empowered to seek approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a federal agency that oversees Medicare and Medicaid, for a State plan amendment to allow for this coverage. If MDH decides to offer this comprehensive coverage, they must notify program recipients, and they can implement utilization management to ensure treatments are medically necessary, similar to how other conditions are handled. Additionally, MDH is required to report to legislative committees by November 1, 2027, on whether this coverage has been implemented and, if not, the reasons why.