MS HB167

Requires all individual and group health insurance policies, managed health care entities, and self-insured arrangements to provide coverage for diseases and conditions caused by obesity, including bariatric surgery, gastric bypass, lap band surgery, and related prescriptions when delivered or renewed on or after July 1, 2017.

Coverage applies when a physician provides a written order stating the individual has a body mass index 30% or more above ideal body weight and the treatment is medically necessary.

Prohibits insurers from requiring higher deductibles or coinsurance for obesity treatment testing than for similar benefits, and prevents cost-sharing that materially diminishes the value of required treatments.

Requires reimbursement rates to health care providers for obesity treatment to be equal to or greater than Medicare reimbursement rates under Title XVII of the Social Security Act.

Allows plans to require use of participating providers when available and accessible; if a nonparticipating provider is used, services must be provided at no additional cost to the individual beyond what they would pay for participating provider services.