The original instrument was prepared by Brandi Cannon. The following digest, which
does not constitute a part of the legislative instrument, was prepared by Amanda
Trapp.
DIGEST
SB 148 Engrossed 2024 Regular Session Mizell
Present law provides certain requirements for implementation of step therapy or fail first protocols
used by any commercial health coverage plan.
Present law requires health coverage plans that restrict medications through step therapy or fail first
protocol to have a process for the prescribing practitioner to request to override the restriction if
certain criteria is met.
Proposed law adds that the prescribing practitioner can request an override for postpartum depression
if the indication for which the prescription drug is required has not been approved by the United
States Food and Drug Administration as described on the prescription drug's approved label.
Effective August 1, 2024.
(Adds R.S. 22:1053(C)(6))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Health and Welfare to the
original bill
1. Deletes the prohibitions against health coverage plans and managed care
organizations using step therapy or first fail protocol for the treatment of postpartum
depression.
2. Deletes the requirement for health coverage plans and managed care organizations
to cover screening for postpartum depression or related mental health disorders.
3. Deletes provisions regarding effectiveness.
4. Adds requirement that a prescribing practitioner can request an override for
postpartum depression if certain conditions are met.