Requires health benefit plans to provide coverage for the treatment of obesity
The introduction of HB2385 is expected to bring significant changes to the health insurance landscape in Missouri. By requiring health benefit plans to cover obesity treatments without higher deductibles or co-payment rates than other healthcare services, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on those seeking necessary medical interventions. This denotes a shift towards prioritizing preventative health measures, ultimately aiming to reduce the long-term health costs associated with untreated obesity. However, it also raises questions regarding the financial implications for insurance providers, who must now accommodate these mandatory provisions.
House Bill 2385 mandates that health benefit plans in Missouri provide coverage specifically for the treatment of obesity and morbid obesity, as well as diseases linked to these conditions. The bill aims to ensure that all health carriers offering new or renewed health benefit plans from January 1, 2023, include this coverage. This legislative move highlights an effort to improve overall health outcomes for individuals affected by obesity by aligning with established treatment standards set by reputable health organizations such as the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
Discussion surrounding HB2385 has included various points of contention, primarily concerning the implications for insurance businesses. Proponents argue that covering obesity treatments is a necessary health intervention that will lead to better health outcomes and possibly lower healthcare costs in the long run. Critics, however, express concerns about the added strain on insurance providers and question the potential for increased premium costs as a result of the mandated coverage. The balance between ensuring accessible healthcare and managing insurance costs is at the forefront of conversations regarding this bill.