SB 2284 Summary

• Prohibits health insurers, mutual benefit societies, and health maintenance organizations from requiring step therapy for stage two through stage four cancer patients before covering drugs prescribed by their health care providers, effective for policies issued or renewed after December 31, 2020.

• Step therapy exemption applies when the prescribed drug is FDA-approved, consistent with best practices, listed in approved compendia, supported by peer-reviewed studies for off-label use, or listed on the insurer's formulary.

• Defines "step therapy" as a protocol requiring patients to use alternative prescription drugs before coverage of the health care provider's recommended drug.

• Requires the State Auditor to conduct an impact assessment report on the social and financial impacts of this mandate and submit findings to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2021 regular session.

• Takes effect July 1, 2050.