This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require all health insurance policies to cover habilitative speech therapy for stuttering, effective July 1, 2026. It introduces six new sections that define "habilitative services" and "rehabilitative services," mandating that coverage for habilitative speech therapy is provided without maximum annual benefit limits, utilization review, or prior authorization requirements. The bill emphasizes that coverage must include both in-person and telehealth services, ensuring comprehensive access to necessary therapy.

For school-age children up to 18 years, the bill specifies that habilitative speech therapy services will be exempt from deductibles, per-visit charges, or copayments, thereby removing financial barriers for families seeking these essential services. The legislation aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by stuttering by ensuring that they have access to the necessary support and resources for their speech therapy needs. Additionally, the bill maintains the authority of the director to oversee provider contracting and payments, ensuring alignment with existing regulatory frameworks.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-16-8b, 33-15-24, 33-16-20, 33-24-15, 33-25-23, 33-25A-37