OK HB1617

Prohibits health benefit plans from denying coverage for medically necessary treatment prescribed by a physician based solely on the insured's life expectancy or diagnosis of a terminal condition.

Defines "terminal condition" as any malignancy or chronic end-stage cardiovascular or cerebral vascular disease likely to result in the insured's death.

Extends the same prohibition to health benefit plans paid directly or indirectly with state funds, including Medicaid.

Requires that treatment denials not be based solely on life expectancy, though other medical necessity criteria may still apply with full informed consent of the insured or authorized legal representative.

Becomes effective November 1, 2015.