Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

Delaware House Bill HB54

Introduced
1/19/23  
Introduced
1/19/23  
Engrossed
3/14/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Engrossed
3/14/23  
Enrolled
5/9/23  
Refer
3/14/23  
Passed
5/25/23  
Enrolled
5/9/23  

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 18, Title 29, And Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Insurance Coverage Of Epinephrine Autoinjectors.

Impact

This legislative change is expected to have a significant impact on healthcare accessibility in Delaware. By mandating that epinephrine autoinjectors be included on the lowest tier of drug formularies, it reduces the financial burden on individuals requiring these life-saving devices. Given that anaphylactic reactions can occur at any age, the expansion of coverage to adults will also potentially save lives and promote public health. It is a commendable move towards ensuring that vital medications are accessible to everyone in need, not just a limited demographic.

Summary

House Bill 54 seeks to amend the Delaware Code regarding insurance coverage for epinephrine autoinjectors. The primary objective of the bill is to ensure that all health insurance policies provide coverage for medically-necessary epinephrine autoinjectors for individuals of all ages. While current legislation mandates that these autoinjectors be covered for individuals aged 18 and under, this bill expands the coverage requirement to include all policyholders, irrespective of their age, by January 1, 2024.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 54 appears to be positive among supporters, as it demonstrates a commitment to public health and safety. Various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and advocacy groups, have likely rallied behind this initiative, emphasizing the necessity of making necessary medical interventions available. The emphasis on inclusivity in medical coverage resonates well with constituents who advocate for comprehensive healthcare reforms.

Contention

Though the bill seems to have garnered support, there may be points of contention regarding its implementation. Some insurance carriers may express concerns about the financial implications of expanding coverage to all individuals, which could impact their premium structures. There is also the technical aspect of how the amendments will be integrated into current insurance policies, ensuring compliance without disrupting existing healthcare agreements. Furthermore, the amendment includes a technical correction regarding applicability, which might raise questions about the bill's transitional provisions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

DE HB110

An Act To Amend Titles 18, 29, And 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Insurance Coverage For Termination Of Pregnancy.

DE SB272

An Act To Amend Titles 18 And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Health Insurance, And Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Pharmacist Care.

DE HB274

An Act To Amend Title 18, Title 29, And Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Insurance Coverage Of Allergen Introduction Dietary Supplements For Infants.

DE HB15

An Act To Amend Title 18 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Ovarian Cancer.

DE HB16

An Act To Amend Titles 29 And 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Ovarian Cancer.

DE SB200

An Act To Amend Title 18 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Property Insurance Contracts.

DE HB281

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To State Health Care Insurance.

DE HB1

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Marijuana.

DE HB253

An Act To Amend Titles 16, 18, 29, And 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Mammograms.

DE HB310

An Act To Amend Titles 6, 14, And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The United States Space Force.

Similar Bills

MA H2500

Relative to increasing access to epinephrine

RI H5618

RELATED TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- THE MANDATORY CARRYING OF EPINEPHRINE AUTOINJECTORS BY POLICE OFFICERS ACT

MA H1359

Relative to capping the price of epinephrine

OH HB597

Require coverage of epinephrine and glucagon for minors

MA H1743

Relative to police use of epinephrine autoinjectors

MA H1962

Relative to police use of epinephrine autoinjectors

MT SB211

Revise emergency use of epinephrine in school setting to include nasal spray

MS HB153

School districts; require each school to have epinephrine auto-injectors and AEDs in every building and cafeteria.