Governor Signs Health Care Bill in Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
On Monday, Governor Mike Kehoe signed House Bill 2372, which aims to revamp various health care laws in the state.
The bill was brought forth by State Rep. Tara Peters (R-Phelps County) and State Sen. Mike Bernscotter (R-Cole County). A significant part of the legislation prevents health insurance companies from imposing time limits on anesthesia coverage during surgeries.
In 2024, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield suggested a policy that would restrict reimbursement for anesthesia according to time limits imposed by insurers for surgeries and medical procedures.
State Rep. David Tyson Smith (D-Columbia), who advocated for the anesthesia provision, expressed that the intention is to shield Missourians from large health insurance companies.
“There was a public outcry. People across the nation were upset about Anthem’s proposed actions, and ultimately they backed down,” Tyson Smith stated. “No insurer can dictate such terms when it comes to covering a medical procedure. So, Missouri is saying that if you’re in a dire situation requiring surgery, we won’t let insurance companies limit your access to necessary care.”
He also mentioned that while insurers are not in favor of the proposal, they seem hesitant to challenge Anthem’s reimbursement policies after the public outcry.
“Insurance companies typically resist this kind of change. They might not voice it openly, but the governor mentioned some objections from them. Right after the news broke, they were extremely quiet. During committee meetings, representatives were present but seemed reluctant to speak up,” Tyson Smith added.
When asked about the rationale behind insurers wanting time limits on anesthesia coverage, Tyson Smith pointed to financial motives.
“It’s driven by money, that’s no secret. The primary reason they hesitate to cover expenses is cost,” he remarked. “Six years of reports can be costly, affecting many people’s lives, and it’s unacceptable that they would even consider such a proposal.”
A recent health survey by the Ambulatory Surgery Center revealed that 67% of respondents identified anesthesia coverage as one of their top three economic concerns, with expectations for anesthesia benefit payments rising from 28% in 2024 to 44% in 2025.
Tyson Smith noted that there was little opposition to the bill, allowing it to move forward without major hurdles in both chambers. The anesthesia provisions will take effect on August 28th.
Other aspects of the bill address alpha-gal syndrome, a severe allergy triggered by ticks which affects reactions to red meat and related products.
This legislation mandates that cases of alpha-gal syndrome be reported to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services within seven days of a positive test result. Additionally, the department is required to furnish reports to the Centers for Disease Control.
Cases of Lyme disease must also be reported to the department.
The bill further facilitates the development of patient-provider relationships through telehealth options and reduces barriers to ambulance services.
