Michigan: HB5457

Bill Summary

Michigan HB5457 establishes the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Fund Act, creating a dedicated state fund administered by the Department of Health and Human Services to support a hyperbaric oxygen therapy pilot program for military personnel and veterans. The fund will receive deposits from various sources, with all interest and earnings credited back to the fund, and disbursements authorized only through legislative appropriation. Funds are designated for grants and establishment of the pilot program, with the fund closing and remaining money reverting to the general fund once the pilot program concludes. The bill is contingent on the passage of companion legislation HB5456. This represents a bipartisan effort with 26 sponsors, including both Republican and Democratic legislators.

Why It Matters to MAHA

MAHA strongly supports this bill because it expands access to an innovative treatment option that many patients believe offers therapeutic benefits but may face barriers to coverage or availability through standard insurance channels. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has evidence supporting its use for certain conditions including wound healing, diabetic ulcers, and chronic pain conditions, yet patients often struggle to access this treatment due to cost or insurance limitations. By establishing a dedicated pilot program with state funding, Michigan removes financial barriers and gives patients and veterans greater autonomy to pursue a treatment their healthcare providers recommend. This aligns with MAHA's core commitment to health freedom by ensuring patients have access to evidence-based treatments without unnecessary regulatory or financial obstruction. The bipartisan sponsorship demonstrates that expanding innovative treatment access transcends partisan politics.