LA HB467

Health insurers providing maternity benefits must cover amino acid-based elemental formulas for children aged 2 years or younger when medically necessary, regardless of delivery method.

Coverage requires diagnosis by a board-certified allergist or gastroenterologist and a written order from the treating physician for conditions including multiple food protein allergies, severe food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, eosinophilic disorders confirmed by biopsy, or impaired nutrient absorption.

Louisiana Medicaid must also provide equivalent coverage for eligible children through the Louisiana Department of Health.

Coverage must be provided on terms no less favorable than prescription drug coverage, though standard deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance may apply.

Known as the "Darcy Evelyn Bivins Act," the provisions become effective upon legislative appropriation of funding, applying to new policies after the following January 1st and existing policies within 359 days of that date.