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 medications are restricted by health coverage plans, prescribing practitioners must have access to a clear and convenient process to request an override of these restrictions. The override process is required to be easily accessible on the health coverage plan's website.

Additionally, the bill specifies that an override must be granted if the prescribing practitioner can demonstrate, using sound clinical evidence, that the required prescription drug for postpartum depression is not indicated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this condition on the drug's approved labeling. This provision aims to ensure that patients with postpartum depression receive appropriate and timely treatment without unnecessary barriers.

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