Coverage of medical services and prescription medications requirement for the treatment of dementia

This bill requires health insurance plans in Minnesota to cover all FDA-approved medical services and prescription medications used to treat or slow the progression of dementia, including diagnostic tests to evaluate their effectiveness. To ensure patients can access these treatments without unnecessary hurdles, the law prohibits insurers from using step therapy protocols, which typically require trying cheaper or less effective options first, before approving coverage for dementia care. The legislation also modifies rules on prior authorization for other drugs, mandating public comment periods and streamlined processes for specific medications, such as those used by patients with enteral feeding tubes. These changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027, applying to health plans that are offered, issued, or renewed on or after that date.