Eating Disorder Awareness

This year, I had the pleasure of working with families to pass legislation that will ensure those suffering from eating disorders can truly get the care they need. As a legislator, the laws I help write and pass have an effect on most citizen’s lives at some point. But, when the opportunity presents itself to be able to truly see and learn of the impact a law has on a person, which is what truly means the most. That is when it is easy to see the true scope of what my job as a Missouri senator can do for others; it enables me to help those who need it most.

There are believed to be 575,000 Missourians — of all backgrounds and socioeconomic status —battling eating disorders. Chances are you know someone who is affected by one of these devastating illnesses that affects a person’s psychological and physical well-being.

Last weekend, I had the honor of speaking at the Kansas City National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Life Walk. Hundreds of dedicated advocates gathered to help spread awareness for conditions like bulimia, anorexia and binge-eating. These volunteers raised over $28,000, well above the events goal of $25,000.  While the public’s understanding of the emotional and physical toll of these illnesses is spreading, there is still much work to be done, that is why I am proud to have sponsored and seen the passage of Senate Bill 145.

Most importantly, SB 145 requires health insurance plans to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders. The bill also requires the provided coverage include a broad array of specialist services, as determined as necessary by the patient’s treatment team.

Treatment of eating disorders care would include but not be limited to: medical care, psychological care, psychiatric care, nutritional care, therapy and pharmacy care. Insurance companies must make any necessary changes to their coverage plans begins for the year 2017.

A fiscal note estimates that SB 145 will cost the state less than $12,500 a year to comply with the rule.

Senate Bill 145 has been delivered to the governor. It is my hope that he will see the importance of this legislation and sign this measure into law.

If you or someone you know has an eating disorder and are in need of assistance, please call NEDA’s National Hotline at  1-800-931-2237.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or (573) 751-2272, or by fax at (573) 526-7381.