South Franklin News

The Ohio House of Representatives has taken a significant step in combatting the opioid epidemic by passing House Bill 141. The legislation, sponsored by State Reps. Jeff LaRe and Monica Robb Blasdel, aims to place cost-sharing requirement restrictions on occupational therapy, physical therapy, and chiropractor services.

The main objective of House Bill 141 is to ensure that the cost-sharing requirement for these services is not greater than the cost-sharing requirement for services provided by an individual's primary care physician. This measure is crucial in breaking down the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing necessary medical services.

According to State Rep. LaRe, "In Ohio, high cost-sharing payments have become a common barrier for many medical services. We have an obligation to provide our constituents with long-term solutions that reduce reliance on potentially dangerous and addictive short-term, pharmaceutical treatments. House Bill 141 is a step in that direction."

The sponsors of the bill, State Rep. Blasdel, expressed their hopes that this legislation will make therapy a more affordable option and reduce reliance on prescription medications. They emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to seek evidenced-based therapies and conservative care to manage their pain, enabling them to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Cost-sharing refers to the out-of-pocket expenses that individuals incur for their occupational, physical therapy, or chiropractor services. By placing restrictions on these expenses, House Bill 141 aims to make these services more accessible and affordable for Ohioans.

With the passage of House Bill 141 in the Ohio House of Representatives, the legislation now moves to the Ohio Senate for consideration. This development marks a positive step forward in addressing the opioid epidemic by removing financial barriers and promoting alternative, non-pharmaceutical treatments for pain management.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/jeff-lare/news/house-passes-legislation-to-implement-cost-sharing-requirement-restrictions-to-combat-the-opioid-epidemic-117767