The Missouri General Assembly wrapped up its 2026 legislative session with a series of impactful healthcare reforms, now awaiting Governor Mike Kehoe’s approval. These changes could significantly alter how healthcare is accessed and delivered across the state.

Key Legislative Changes

Among the notable reforms, House Bill 2372, led by Rep. Tara Peters, a Rolla Republican, introduces several changes to pharmacy and prescription practices. This includes mandating that insurers reimburse providers of 340B drugs, which are federally discounted for safety-net providers, at rates comparable to other providers. Additionally, the bill requires health plans to cover alternatives to opioid medications and prohibits practices that favor opioid prescriptions over non-opioid alternatives.

The bill also expands access to investigational drug trials and treatments not yet fully approved federally, providing new options for patients seeking innovative therapies. In a move to enhance maternal health, the legislation mandates that health insurance plans cover a full year’s supply of oral contraceptives, rather than requiring frequent refills.

Medicaid and Emergency Services

Missouri’s Medicaid program, MO HealthNet, will see the inclusion of doula services and coverage for “Food is Medicine” programs, which involve prescribed diets and nutrition counseling. Furthermore, the legislation facilitates the consolidation of ambulance districts without requiring a public vote, although it allows for a public vote to halt such consolidations if necessary.

Senate Bill 878, sponsored by Sen. Travis Fitzwater, mirrors some provisions of HB 2372, including the sale of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine over the counter. It also permits pharmacists to prescribe certain medical devices and administer updated vaccines.

Women’s Health and Safety Measures

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Brad Hudson introduces the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, ensuring that infants born alive during or after an abortion receive the same medical care as other newborns. This bill also addresses civil liability for providers and clarifies the application of homicide laws in cases involving born-alive infants.

Additional measures include updates to Missouri’s Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review Board and provisions addressing stalking and harassment, including cyber harassment and revenge porn.

Other Legislative Actions

Rep. Sherri Gallick’s HB 1840 establishes a statewide alert system for missing individuals with developmental disabilities. Meanwhile, HB 2974, sponsored by Rep. Melanie Stinnett, facilitates telehealth services through interstate reciprocity agreements and establishes license reciprocity compacts for various healthcare professionals.

Original reporting: The Beacon (Kansas City) — read the source article.