Connecticut Senate Bill SB00204

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/20
• Refer: 2/20/20
• Report Pass: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Certain Surgical Procedures Performed To Treat Severe Obesity.

Impact

The introduction of SB00204 is significant for state health laws, as it formalizes the requirement for insurance companies to include obesity-related surgical procedures in their coverage policies. This change is expected to alleviate the financial burden on patients who require these surgeries and help enhance their overall health and well-being. By recognizing obesity as a medical condition that necessitates surgical intervention, the bill aligns state laws with evolving healthcare practices focusing on preventative care and chronic disease management.

Summary

SB00204, also known as An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Certain Surgical Procedures Performed To Treat Severe Obesity, focuses on mandating health insurance policies to provide coverage for specific surgical treatments aimed at individuals identified as severely obese. The bill defines severe obesity based on body mass index (BMI) metrics and specifies that surgeries such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and others must be covered if they are recognized by leading health organizations as providing long-term weight loss benefits. This legislation is intended to enhance access to necessary medical procedures for individuals who may be struggling with obesity-related health issues.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB00204 could reveal points of contention, particularly pertaining to health insurance providers' responsibilities and costs associated with expanding coverage. Critics may express concerns regarding the potential increase in insurance premiums and the implications for provider reimbursements. However, proponents argue that covering these surgeries can ultimately lead to reduced long-term healthcare costs by preventing obesity-related complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions.