Tennessee House Bill HB2213

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to prescription drugs.

Impact

The enactment of HB2213 would significantly impact healthcare practices surrounding cancer treatment in Tennessee. It is structured to safeguard patients from insurance strategies that might prioritize cost savings over effective care. With the requirement that drugs be evidence-based and FDA approved, the bill reinforces a standard of care that aligns with current medical guidelines. This legislative change holds the potential to improve health outcomes for individuals battling cancer by reducing administrative barriers between patients and critical therapies.

Summary

House Bill 2213 aims to amend various Tennessee Code Annotated sections regarding prescription drug coverage, particularly addressing the treatment of cancer and associated conditions. The bill specifies that healthcare practitioners have the authority to prescribe medications without being hindered by restrictive insurance protocols, specifically step therapy protocols, which could delay or deny necessary treatments. By ensuring that the prescribed drug regimens follow best practices, the bill seeks to promote timely access to effective cancer therapies.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB2213 appears to be positive among advocates for patient rights and cancer care. Proponents argue that this bill protects vulnerable patients from potentially harmful delays in receiving essential medication. However, there may be pushback from insurance companies concerned about the implications for cost and coverage parameters. The anticipation of robust discussions surrounding the bill underscores the complexity of the healthcare regulatory landscape, where patient advocacy and economic considerations are often at odds.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's implications for insurance companies, which traditionally employ step therapy as a cost-control mechanism. Critics fear that this bill could lead to an increase in prescription drug expenditures, as it limits their ability to manage treatment plans. The debate is likely to center around balancing patient needs with the economic realities of drug pricing and insurance coverage in Tennessee, making the implementation of this bill a focal point for discussions on healthcare reform.