Newswise — AED commends Governor Jay Nixon’s decision to sign into law a bill that specifically defines the guidelines for the coverage of eating disorders. Missouri is now set to become the first state to establish specific parameters insurance companies must follow under the Affordable Care Act regulations. Simply put, this bill defines how eating disorders will be covered by insurance in the state of Missouri.
In 2010, the Missouri General Assembly established the Missouri Eating Disorders Council with the goal of raising awareness, providing education and improving access to care for all Missourians. Insurance Reform legislation was first filed in 2009 and continued being filed every year until its passage this past legislative session. Annie Seal, citizen advocate, who worked on the bill for the past seven years states, “This bill is a landmark bill in that it should serve as a model for other states. This is not a mandate and the bill does not incur costs; it simply defines coverage under Missouri’s current mental health parity law.” Ms. Seal credits devoted and compassionate legislators for filing and supporting the bill over the years, including Senator David Pearce, the bill’s sponsor and Rick Stream, past House Representative and also a sponsor, who continued to fight for the bill after leaving office. According to Senator Pearce, “this bill will save lives and for that we are grateful.”
The measure requires insurance coverage to align with the Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Eating Disorders adopted by the American Psychiatric Association, which includes medical and psychological care. According to the bill, weight can no longer be used as a sole criterion for approving treatment or continuation of care. This will likely be life saving for some sufferers.
About the AEDThe Academy for Eating Disorders is a global and trans-disciplinary professional organization with more than 1,500 members from 47 countries worldwide. AED provides educational resources and platforms for professional dialogue, training, and collaboration through its publications, including the International Journal of Eating Disorders, annual International Conference on Eating Disorders, clinical teaching days and other programs. Visit www.aedweb.org for more information.
RSS