Oklahoma Senate Bill SB404

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Medicaid; requiring coverage of medically necessary pasteurized donor breast milk under certain conditions. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SB404 would significantly impact existing state laws regarding Medicaid coverage. It mandates the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to include pasteurized donor breast milk in its coverage for infants who meet certain medical conditions. The legislation also authorizes the board to establish rules regarding necessary health conditions and birth weight criteria for the coverage, as well as setting time limits for the provision of this milk. Consequently, it could facilitate better health management for infants during critical early stages of development and foster a more inclusive healthcare system.

Summary

Senate Bill 404 aims to enhance the Oklahoma Medicaid program by requiring coverage for medically necessary pasteurized donor breast milk under specific circumstances. This legislation is primarily designed to support infants who are unable to receive maternal breast milk due to various medical reasons, such as the mother's inability to produce sufficient quantities of milk. The bill stipulates that a licensed physician must sign an order declaring the medical necessity of donor breast milk for qualifying infant Medicaid beneficiaries. By implementing these requirements, the bill intends to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations within the state.

Contention

Notably, the enactment of SB404 may raise discussions concerning healthcare policies related to maternal and infant health. While the intent is broadly supportive of infant health needs, opposition may stem from concerns about funding, administrative challenges, or the potential for misuse of Medicaid funds. Moreover, the requirement for physicians to confirm the medical necessity could lead to debates about the adequacy of existing criteria and the implications for healthcare providers tasked with determining when donor breast milk is required. As the bill moves forward, these points of contention may need to be addressed to ensure its successful implementation.