Missouri General Assembly enacts new health care regulations in House Bill 1095

The Missouri State Legislature has introduced House Bill 1095, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming health care practices within the state. Introduced on April 17, 2025, the bill seeks to repeal existing sections of the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo) and replace them with nine new sections that focus on enhancing health care services, particularly in maternal and prenatal care.

The primary purpose of House Bill 1095 is to empower health officials and licensed physicians to issue standing orders for specific health services. Notably, the bill allows the chief medical officer or chief medical director of the Department of Health and Senior Services, the Department of Mental Health, or the MO HealthNet division to provide nonspecific recommendations for doula services and issue medical standing orders for prenatal vitamins. This change is designed to streamline access to essential health services for expectant mothers and improve overall maternal health outcomes.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement that any standing orders issued must be made available on the relevant department's website and will expire within one year unless renewed. Additionally, the bill provides immunity to the issuing medical professionals from liability, as long as they operate within their scope of practice.

The introduction of House Bill 1095 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and health care advocates. Supporters argue that the bill will enhance access to vital prenatal care and support services, potentially reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in Missouri. However, some opposition has emerged, with concerns about the implications of allowing non-physicians to issue recommendations and the potential for overreach in medical practices.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as improved maternal health care may lead to reduced health care costs in the long term. Socially, the bill aims to address disparities in access to prenatal care, particularly for underserved populations.

As House Bill 1095 moves through the legislative process, its potential impact on Missouri's health care landscape remains a focal point of debate. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the discussions, as the bill could pave the way for broader reforms in health care delivery and access in the state.