The bill enacts a new provision in Louisiana law regarding the treatment of postpartum depression, specifically addressing the application of step therapy and fail first protocols for prescribed medications. It establishes that when health coverage plans impose restrictions on medications through these protocols, prescribing practitioners must have access to a clear and convenient process to request an override of such restrictions. The override process is required to be easily accessible on the health coverage plan's website.

Additionally, the bill specifies a new condition under which an override must be granted: if the prescribing practitioner can demonstrate that the required prescription drug for postpartum depression is not indicated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for that condition on the drug's approved labeling. This provision aims to ensure that patients with postpartum depression have timely access to appropriate medications without unnecessary barriers.

Statutes affected:
SB148 Original: 22:1053(K)