SB 5874-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Requires each health benefit plan offered to public employees and their covered dependents under chapter 41.05 RCW that is not subject to the provisions of Title 48 RCW and is issued or renewed after December 31, 2007, shall provide coverage for: (1) Amino acid-based elemental formulas for infants and children, when medically necessary, regardless of the delivery method: (a) for the diagnosis and treatment of milk protein allergies and intolerances and other food allergies and intolerances, impaired absorption of nutrients caused by disorders affecting the absorptive surface, functional length, motility of the gastrointestinal tract, and inherited diseases of amino acids and organic acids; (b) for testing to determine an infant's or child's status with regard to various diseases and disorders; and (c) for any other metabolic condition when recommended by a licensed health care provider; and

(2) Specialized amino acid-based elemental formulas when such specialized formulas are medically necessary for the treatment of a disease or condition and are the least restrictive means for meeting the needs of the patient. The verification of a disease or a condition must be directed by a licensed health care professional and administered under the direction of a licensed health care professional.