This bill establishes a new section in Oklahoma law that mandates the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to provide Medicaid coverage for rapid whole genome sequencing (RWGS) for beneficiaries under the age of twenty-one who meet specific medical criteria. The criteria include having a complex or acute illness of unknown origin while receiving care in a high-acuity hospital setting. The bill outlines the medical necessity criteria that must be satisfied for coverage, which includes the need for timely identification of a molecular diagnosis to guide treatment decisions. Additionally, the Chief Operating Officer of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority is granted the discretion to expand coverage based on new medical evidence.

The bill also addresses the handling of genetic data obtained from RWGS, ensuring that it is primarily used for patient diagnosis and treatment while adhering to HIPAA regulations. Consent from the patient or their legal guardian is required for the use of genetic data in scientific research, and individuals have the right to rescind this consent at any time. The Chief Operating Officer is tasked with implementing the provisions of the bill, which may involve creating rules and regulations or submitting necessary applications to federal agencies for financial participation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.