Bill Would Cut Red Tape for Patient Care

On Thursday, the Missouri House third read and passed HB 618, sponsored by State Representative Melanie Stinnett, with a vote of 148-4. The bill aims to ensure that Missourians receive timely medical care without unnecessary delays by reducing hurdles to the process of prior authorizations. HB 618 would make it easier for patients to get timely care needs met starting January 1, 2026.

Healthcare providers and hospitals with a strong track record of 90% or more approvals won’t need pre-approval for most services. High-performing hospitals can skip the hassle if they meet quality standards, join value-based care agreements, or maintain high approval rates.

Exceptions include costly pharmacy or imaging services over $100K, non-essential cosmetic procedures, and experimental treatments.

Patients switching to new health plans also gain a 90-day grace period for previously approved medications, ensuring continuity of care. “This bill is a step in the right direction for quality patient care,” stated Rep. Stinnett, R-Springfield. “By removing the barrier of prior authorization in some instances, we can ensure that patients are getting access to the healthcare they need when they need it.”

HB 618 excludes Missouri’s Medicaid program, except for Medicaid managed care organizations, and would not apply to providers new to a health plan or those operating beyond their licensed scope.

Now that HB 618 has passed out of the House, it heads to the Missouri Senate for review.