Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would require health insurance plans in Rhode Island that include prescription drug coverage to pay for at least one modern form of glucagon — a medication used to treat severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Specifically, the bill focuses on newer, easier-to-use versions of glucagon, such as auto-injectors (similar to an EpiPen), nasal sprays, or ready-to-use liquid formulations. These are simpler to administer than older glucagon kits, which require mixing powder and liquid together (a process called "reconstitution") before use, especially difficult in an emergency situation.

Importantly, the bill would require insurance plans to cover these medications with no out-of-pocket costs to the patient — meaning no copayments and no deductibles. This means that people who need glucagon would be able to get it without paying anything at the pharmacy counter, as long as their insurance plan includes prescription coverage.

This bill primarily affects people living with diabetes, particularly those at risk of severe hypoglycemic episodes, as well as their families and caregivers who may need to administer glucagon in an emergency. It also affects health insurance companies operating in Rhode Island, which would be required to update their coverage policies to meet this new standard. The bill has been introduced and sent to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee for further review.