NJ S2918

Insurance carriers and State Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare programs must cover prescription drugs for serious mental illness without prior authorization, utilization management, or step therapy requirements when prescribed by a psychiatrist or an obstetrician/gynecologist during the postpartum period.

Serious mental illness is defined to include schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorders, bipolar disorders, major depressive disorders (including postpartum onset), and post-traumatic stress disorder.

After six months of stable treatment with a drug prescribed by a psychiatrist or OB/GYN, any other prescriber may continue the prescription without prior authorization requirements.

The coverage requirements apply only to adults 18 years of age or older.

The bill takes effect 180 days after enactment and applies to policies issued or renewed after that date.