Maryland Medical Assistance Program and Health Insurance - Coverage for Orthoses (So Every Body Can Move Act)

HB 383, the "So Every Body Can Move Act," requires Maryland's Medicaid program (Medical Assistance Program) and certain private health insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and HMOs to cover orthoses - custom devices treating neuromuscular or musculoskeletal conditions - starting January 1, 2026. The bill mandates coverage for the devices themselves, components, repairs, and replacements without lifetime limits or higher copays than other medical benefits. It specifies that replacements must be covered if a healthcare provider determines they’re needed due to physiological changes, irreparable damage, or repair costs exceeding 60% of replacement costs. This directly affects Medicaid beneficiaries and insured individuals in Maryland requiring orthotic devices for daily living, work, or physical activity. The law amends Maryland’s Health and Insurance Articles (sections 15-103 and 15-820) to establish these coverage requirements.