Required coverage for pregnancy-related nutrition counseling services; reimbursement discrimination prohibited; definitions

A. The legislature hereby finds and affirms all of the following: (1) Louisiana has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the United States and has a compelling interest and obligation to promote practices that improve maternal and infant health outcomes. (2) A healthy diet and weight before, during, and after pregnancy can promote positive health outcomes for mothers and babies. Access to nutrition services in the beginning of a pregnancy can lead to increased positive outcomes for both mothers and babies. B. (1) Any health coverage plan delivered or issued for delivery in this state that provides benefits for maternity services shall include coverage for pregnancy-related nutrition counseling services provided by a licensed dietitian or licensed nutritionist in the first trimester of the pregnancy when recommended by the treating healthcare provider. Coverage provided pursuant to this Section shall not require a diagnosis of gestational diabetes or any other chronic health condition. (2) The coverage provided for in this Section may be subject to annual deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments consistent with those established under the health coverage plan. C. Terminology in any health coverage plan policy or contract deemed discriminatory against licensed dietitians or licensed nutritionists or their services is void and unenforceable. D. For purposes of this Section, the following definitions apply: (1) "Health coverage plan" means any hospital, health, or medical expense insurance policy, hospital or medical service contract, employee welfare benefit plan, contract, or other agreement with a health maintenance organization or a preferred provider organization, health and accident insurance policy, or any other insurance contract of this type in this state, including a group insurance plan, a self-insurance plan, and the Office of Group Benefits programs. "Health coverage plan" does not include a plan providing coverage for excepted benefits as defined in R.S. 22:1061, limited benefit health insurance plans, and short-term policies that have a term of less than twelve months. (2) "Licensed dietitian" or "licensed nutritionist" means a person licensed to provide nutrition-related services pursuant to the Louisiana Dietetics/Nutrition Practice Act of 1987, R.S. 37:3081 et seq.