The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 331, aims to modify the step therapy requirements for prescription drugs covered under the Medicaid program. Specifically, it repeals the existing language in subsection (b) of section 17b-274f and replaces it with new provisions. The bill stipulates that the duration of any step therapy program for Medicaid coverage may follow evidence-based guidelines issued by the drug manufacturer and the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If no such guidelines are available, the step therapy period cannot exceed thirty days. After this period, if the prescribing practitioner determines that the treatment is clinically ineffective, the recommended drug must be dispensed and covered by Medicaid.

The changes made by this bill are significant as they align step therapy requirements with established manufacturer guidelines, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective treatment. The deletion of the word "shall" and the insertion of "may" indicates a shift towards more flexible and patient-centered care, allowing practitioners to make decisions based on clinical effectiveness rather than rigid protocols. This legislation is intended to enhance the quality of care for Medicaid recipients by ensuring that they have access to the most appropriate medications in a timely manner.