Bill > A03676

This bill establishes the "Syd O. Sotillo Sickle Cell Treatment Act" to improve sickle cell disease care in New York by creating two key types of medical centers. First, the bill directs the state health commissioner to designate five "centers for sickle cell care excellence" located north of Putnam and Orange counties, which will provide specialized sickle cell disease care, treatment, palliative care, education, and conduct research. These centers will receive $500,000 annually for research and must affiliate with medical colleges and research institutes. Second, the bill mandates the designation of ten "sickle cell outpatient treatment centers" distributed based on patient population concentrations, which will provide outpatient treatment for sickle cell patients and receive $250,000 annually for management and equipment. Additionally, the bill modifies existing opioid prescription guidelines to explicitly exempt sickle cell disease patients from certain treatment plan requirements, recognizing the unique pain management needs of individuals with this condition. The bill aims to improve medical care, research, and support for individuals living with sickle cell disease across New York State.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3676