MS HB1281

Health coverage plans are prohibited from restricting coverage for medically appropriate, physician-prescribed treatment based solely on a patient's diagnosis with a terminal condition, provided the patient (or legal representative) gives informed consent

Refusing to pay for end-of-life treatment that aligns with best practices, approved drug/device uses, or peer-reviewed medical literature constitutes a per se violation and an unfair trade practice subject to legal penalties

"Terminal condition" is defined as aggressive malignancy, chronic end-stage cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or any other disease/illness/condition diagnosed as terminal by a physician

The prohibition applies to all health coverage plans including private insurance, HMOs, PPOs, employee welfare benefit plans, and the State Health and Life Insurance Plan, as well as Medicaid and other state-funded health benefits

The bill amends Section 25-15-9 of the Mississippi Code to add terminal condition protections specifically to the State and School Employees Health Insurance Plan, effective July 1, 2014