Missouri House Bill HB1365

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 4/5/23
• Report Pass: 4/27/23
• Refer: 5/8/23

Caption

Creates provisions relating to awareness of certain pediatric disorders

Impact

By instituting an official awareness day, HB1365 aims to enhance public knowledge about PANS and PANDAS, which are often not widely recognized conditions. This increase in awareness may lead to better diagnosis, treatment, and support for affected children and their families. Furthermore, the bill can serve as a catalyst for community initiatives and collaborations among healthcare providers, schools, and advocacy groups that promote further research and resources for these conditions.

Summary

House Bill 1365 aims to promote awareness of certain pediatric disorders, specifically Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus (PANDAS). The bill designates March 26th of each year as 'PANS/PANDAS Awareness Day' in the state of Missouri. This designation seeks to encourage educational and awareness events and activities that can help raise understanding and support surrounding these disorders among the public and healthcare professionals.

Contention

While the bill is largely framed as an effort to increase awareness, there may be discussions regarding the allocation of resources and the spotlight on specific disorders. Some stakeholders might argue that focusing on PANS and PANDAS could divert attention and resources from other equally important pediatric health issues. Nonetheless, the bill seems to have positive support aimed at generating greater recognition for these disorders, potentially leading to improved outcomes for children in Missouri suffering from these conditions.