Bill > H4554

This bill aims to improve sickle cell care in Massachusetts through several comprehensive measures. It establishes a Statewide Steering Committee on Sickle Cell Disease within the Department of Public Health, composed of diverse stakeholders including medical professionals, patients, educators, and community representatives, to develop partnerships, create educational materials, and identify funding sources for sickle cell disease support. The bill mandates the creation of a sickle cell disease detection and education program to promote screening, especially among underserved populations, and provides grants to organizations for screening, counseling, and referral services. Additionally, the bill requires the establishment of a comprehensive registry to collect detailed information about sickle cell disease cases, which will help track epidemiological trends and improve treatment strategies. The legislation also requires MassHealth to develop a quality strategy for sickle cell disease care in managed care organizations, including care coordination, provider training, and performance measures. Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for fertility preservation services for patients whose medical treatments might cause infertility, ensuring that individuals with sickle cell disease have access to reproductive health options. These multifaceted approaches aim to improve healthcare access, education, research, and support for individuals with sickle cell disease across Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Financial Services (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4554