SB 1459 Summary

• Eliminates prior authorization requirements for psychiatric medications prescribed to treat six qualifying mental disorders (bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, schizoaffective disorders, and schizophrenia) for individuals 18 years of age or older.

• Applies the prior authorization exemption only when prescribed medications are covered benefits, do not exceed FDA-labeled dosages, and the patient has either previously tried a preferred drug list medication for the same disorder that failed due to lack of efficacy or adverse effects, or has experienced positive therapeutic outcomes on the prescribed medication.

• Amends Arizona Revised Statutes section 36-2907 regarding Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) covered services and adds new section 36-3410.01 to establish statewide standards for mental health medication prior authorization.