Ask Missouri Lawmakers to Improve Obesity Care for Children

Background: A bill introduced in the Missouri Senate, SB 1606, would help ensure children affected by obesity have access to the care they need to improve their health and quality of life. SB 1606 would require health benefit plans in Missouri to cover treatment for obesity and severe obesity for children and adolescents. These services include evidence-based care recommended by leading medical organizations, such as family-based counseling, behavioral health support and other medically appropriate treatment options.

Obesity is a complex, chronic disease, and early access to care can help improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of serious health conditions later in life. Expanding coverage for evidence-based treatment would help more Missouri families access the care their children need.

Take Action Now: Use OAC’s advocacy tool below to send a message to your Missouri State Senator urging them to support SB 1606 and efforts to improve access to obesity care for children.

It’s Easy to Advocate! Use our automated message generator below to get started. Once you enter your information, you’ll find a template letter you can send to your Missouri State Senator.

We encourage you to personalize the message by sharing your own experience or why improving access to obesity care for children matters to you.

Your voice can help ensure children affected by obesity have better access to evidence-based care and healthier futures.