MS HB17

Prohibits health insurance issuers and pharmacy benefit managers from refusing to authorize, approve, or pay participating providers for covered physician-administered drugs and related services to insured patients.

Prevents health insurance issuers from requiring covered persons to pay penalties or additional fees beyond standard cost-sharing amounts when obtaining physician-administered drugs from participating providers.

Requires all provider agreements to cover physician-administered drugs when medical necessity criteria are met, regardless of whether the provider obtains drugs from non-participating pharmacies, provided drugs meet federal Drug Supply Chain Security Act requirements.

Mandates payment to participating providers at rates specified in health insurance issuer agreements, or at wholesale acquisition cost if no rate is specified in the agreement.

Classifies violations of these provisions as unfair or deceptive trade practices under Mississippi's Consumer Protection Act, subjecting violators to investigative demands, private actions, and penalties.