Louisiana lawmakers advance bill to broaden insurance coverage for prosthetics

Representative Hebert told the Senate Insurance Committee that House Bill 1235 does not create a new entitlement but clarifies how existing essential‑health‑benefit coverage should be applied to prosthetic and orthotic care so it aligns with medical standards and real life needs. He said the bill would allow coverage for more than one medically necessary device where appropriate and align state rules with Medicare standards.

The bill’s author described Louisiana’s estimated 30,000–40,000 residents living with limb loss and argued that restricting coverage to a single basic device leaves people without the right equipment to work, bathe safely or remain active. “Our devices are not luxuries and they’re not conveniences,” the author said, adding the intent is to ensure access to devices needed for daily function.

The committee heard personal testimony from Katie Guillory, a strength and conditioning coach at LSU who identified herself as a below‑the‑knee amputee. Guillory described paying out of pocket for activity‑specific devices and said denials for non‑basic prosthetics limited her ability to work and maintain mental and physical health. “Movement is not a luxury, it is health care,” Guillory said.

Committee members adopted a set of technical amendments and, after no recorded opposition, the committee reported HB 1235 with amendments. Sponsors and supporters said the measure builds on prior transparency and pharmacy‑network work and reflects practices in other states that have clarified coverage for multiple devices.

The committee did not set final implementation details in the hearing. The next steps will include any additional floor amendments and a second committee or floor consideration as the bill moves through the legislative process.