Bill > SB433

This bill mandates that the Louisiana Department of Health must provide Medicaid coverage for weight loss medications that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are deemed medically necessary, and are prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider for individuals enrolled in Medicaid. The Department of Health will establish specific criteria for this coverage, which may include requirements for prior authorization, meaning approval must be obtained before the medication is dispensed. Importantly, the bill prohibits the Department of Health or any Medicaid managed care organization from requiring "step therapy," a practice where patients must try less expensive treatments first before a more expensive one is covered, for these weight loss medications. The implementation of this coverage must also ensure financial sustainability and comply with federal regulations. The bill's provisions will take effect once the Louisiana Legislature appropriates specific funds for its implementation.