The original instrument was prepared by Cheryl Cooper. The following digest, which
does not constitute a part of the legislative instrument, was prepared by Thomas L.
Tyler.
DIGEST
SB 258 Reengrossed 2016 Regular Session Luneau
Proposed law requires that any health insurance plan or policy issued or renewed in this state on or
after January 1, 2017 provide coverage for the costs of refilling a topical ophthalmic prescription.
Prohibits denial of a refill request under the following circumstances:
1. The refill for a 30 day supply is requested between 23 and 30 days from the original date the
prescription was distributed to the insured or the date the most recent refill was distributed
to the insured, whichever is later.
2. The refill for a 60 day supply is requested between 46 and 60 days from the original date the
prescription was distributed to the insured or the date the most recent refill was distributed
to the insured, whichever is later.
3. The refill for a 90 day supply is requested between 69 and 90 days from the original date the
prescription was distributed to the insured or the date the most recent refill was distributed
to the insured, whichever is later.
Proposed law requires the prescriber to indicate on the original prescription that additional quantities
are necessary and provides that the original prescription not exceed the number of additional
quantities necessary for treatment.
Proposed law limits the refills to a quantity not to exceed the remaining dosage initially approved
for coverage, provided the limited refills do not limit or restrict coverage with regard to any
previously or subsequently approved topical ophthalmic prescription.
Effective August 1, 2016.
(Adds R.S. 22:997.1)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Senate Floor Amendments to engrossed bill
1. Provides that required coverage for refills coverage applies to policies issued or
renewed on or after January 1, 2017 instead of August 1, 2016.
2. Reduces time during which refills can occur for 30, 60, and 90 supply of the prescription.