On June 19, Gov. Nixon of Missouri signed into law SB 145, legislation which requires health benefit plans to cover the treatment and diagnosis of eating disorders within the state.
The law, which will go into effect on January 1, 2017, is a major win for the treatment of eating disorders in the state because it specifically defines the guidelines for the coverage of eating disorders treatment and diagnosis according to the American Psychiatric Association’s practice guidelines. Among these is the recognition that medical necessity should not solely be based off the weight of the individual.
The decision of the Governor to sign this bill into law is indicative of his support for eating disorders treatment. After the passing of the bill by the General Assembly, Gov. Nixon had three choices: 1)veto it, 2)sign it into law, or 3) wait 45 days to have it default into law. His decision to sign it into law instead of allowing it to default is indicative of his active support for it.
In fact, in a public statement, Gov. Nixon stated that his decision was made in recognition of the fact that “like many mental health problems, a person suffering from an eating disorder may have no outward signs of their struggle” and that “by requiring insurance companies to consider the comprehensive health needs of these individuals, and not just their weight, we can help [those] struggling with these disorders receive the care they need to recover.”
In light of such news, NEDA applauds Governor Nixon for signing the legislation into law and actively supporting it. We also congratulate STAR advocate Annie Seal, Board President of NEDA Network member MOEDA, who has worked for several years to see this legislation through. We also again send our thanks to Senator Pearce and Representative Frederick of Missouri for their leadership and support in making this law a reality.
Finally, thank you again to our STAR program advocates who have dedicated their time to spreading awareness about eating disorders and initiating legislative reform. This victory in Missouri proves that persistence can lead to success, and we encourage you to keep using your voice for change!
If you would like to bring similar legislation to your state or become involved in the STAR program, please email Kerry Dolan, STAR Program Manager, at kdolan@nationaleatingdisorders.org.
