SB1449

Missouri SB1449 mandates insurance coverage for nonopioid alternatives to opioids for acute pain treatment.

Missouri SB1449 amends Chapter 376 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding a new section requiring health benefit plans to cover nonopioid medications for acute pain, defined as pain lasting thirty days or fewer. The bill prohibits insurers from denying coverage for these nonopioid prescriptions, requiring patients to try opioid drugs first, or imposing higher cost-sharing for nonopioids compared to opioids. This provision takes effect for health benefit plans starting January 1, 2027.