MS HB106

Requires all health insurance policies, HMOs, and self-insured plans in Mississippi to cover obesity and morbid obesity treatments, including bariatric surgery, gastric bypass, lap band surgery, and prescriptions, effective July 1, 2023

Coverage applies when a physician provides written documentation that the patient has a body mass index 30% or more above ideal body weight and that treatment is medically necessary

Mandates coverage for obesity screening examinations and tests without requiring deductibles or coinsurance greater than those for similar benefits

Requires reimbursement to healthcare providers for obesity treatment to be equal to or greater than Medicare reimbursement rates

If no in-network provider is available for obesity treatment, plans must refer patients to out-of-network providers at no additional cost beyond normal in-network rates