SB 1251, An Act Implementing The Governor’s Recommendations For Health And Human Services

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning SB 1251, An Act Implementing The Governor’s Recommendations For Health And Human Services. CHA supports Section 3 and has comments on Section 15.

Connecticut hospitals and health systems care for patients, strengthen the state’s economy, and support vulnerable communities across the state. Every day, they work to improve healthcare access, affordability, and health equity. Even as they face ongoing challenges, hospitals provide world-class care to everyone who walks through their doors, regardless of their ability to pay. Hospitals also support an exemplary workforce as the largest collective employer in the state, contribute significantly to the state’s economy, and invest in their communities addressing social drivers of health.

Section 3 of this bill requires the Department of Social Services (DSS) to provide coverage for prescription drugs approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for individuals with type 2 diabetes and prescription drugs approved by the federal FDA on an outpatient basis for the treatment of a comorbid condition for individuals with obesity, subject to prior authorization and only after step therapy, when clinically appropriate. It is our understanding that glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) prescription drugs approved by the federal FDA would be among those covered by the requirements of this section.

The prevalence of obesity in Connecticut continues to rise with a significant increase observed over a decade. In 2011, adult obesity prevalence in Connecticut was 24.5%. In 2022, prevalence rose to 30.6%. Efforts to reduce obesity have primarily focused on promoting access to affordable healthy food, promoting physical activity, and improving community spaces to support healthy lifestyle choices. Obesity has associated health risks such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, joint and bone problems, and mental health issues that can be prevented with effective weight loss.

GLP-1 medications are a proven means to reduce weight and the associated risks of other chronic diseases due to obesity. Some of the associated benefits besides effective weight loss are improved blood sugar control and reduced risk for heart disease. With the recent approval of generic alternatives by the FDA, we have an opportunity to ensure all patients with Medicaid coverage can access this important and effective treatment.

Connecticut hospitals and health systems work in collaboration with their community partners to promote access to nutritious foods and opportunities to be physically active. A healthy diet and increased activity, when combined with GLP-1 medications, can lead to sustained weight loss and improved overall health. CHA supports this bill for its potential to improve the health of patients with obesity and reduce avoidable healthcare utilization and associated costs.

Section 15 of this bill modifies the required timeframe for the Office of Health Strategy’s Health Systems Planning Unit to conduct the statewide healthcare facility utilization study, the statewide health care facilities and services plan, and an inventory of health care facilities from every two years to every five years. We recognize that the development of the report, plan, and inventory are resource intensive undertakings for all parties involved. However, we are concerned that, given the importance of the study, plan, and inventory in supporting certificate of need applications and review, that these decisions could be made using non-current information. The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, and it is critical that OHS have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions in the CON process. We urge the committee to take a close look at how the extension of this timeframe could impact CON applications and emphasize that this change should not hinder hospitals’ ability to make critical care delivery decisions.

Thank you for your consideration of our position. For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.