House 4703

WEST VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE

2026 REGULAR SESSION

Introduced

House Bill 4703

By Delegate Chiarelli

[Introduced January 21, 2026; referred to the Committee on Health and Human Resources]

A BILL to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, by adding a new section designated §9-5-34, relating to adding Medicaid coverage of lymphedema compression treatment items and off-the-shelf orthopedic braces.

Be it enacted by the Legislature of West Virginia:

ARTICLE 5. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.

§9-5-34. Medicaid program; coverage of compressions and braces.

(a) Any enrollee in Medicaid who is eligible for services and who has a diagnosis of lymphedema shall receive coverage for lymphedema compression treatment items, such as standard and custom fitted gradient compression garments, lymphedema pumps, and other items as determined by the Bureau for Medical Services.

(b) Any enrollee in Medicaid who is eligible for services and who has been diagnosed with an orthopedic issue that requires a brace shall receive coverage for custom-fitted and off-the-shelf orthopedic braces.

(c) If required, the Bureau for Medical Services shall requite federal approval through a state plan amendment, wavier, or other means to effectuate coverage of the items listed in subsections (a) and (b).

NOTE: The purpose of this bill is to require Medicaid to cover lymphedema compression treatment items and off-the-shelf orthopedic braces.

Strike-throughs indicate language that would be stricken from a heading or the present law and underscoring indicates new language that would be added.