Michigan House Bill HB5458

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/24
• Refer: 2/20/24

Caption

Human services: medical services; sickle cell disease program; require Medicaid managed care organizations to participate in. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding sec. 106c.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to improve health outcomes for individuals with sickle cell disease by setting measurable goals and requiring managed care organizations to report data on identified patients. It will stipulate that these organizations provide adequate networks of specialists, such as hematologists, and deliver training to primary care providers on effective sickle cell disease management practices. In addition, the bill anticipates that it will establish performance measures related to treatment engagement and care access, which will be quantified and publicly reported, promoting accountability within healthcare services.

Summary

House Bill 5458 aims to amend the Social Welfare Act to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with sickle cell disease enrolled in Medicaid managed care organizations in Michigan. The bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that these individuals have access to specialized care, which includes implementing a comprehensive sickle cell disease quality strategy by the fiscal year 2025. This initiative emphasizes improving the identification of patients with sickle cell disease, ensuring adequate provider networks, and developing care coordination supports to facilitate timely access to necessary services.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 5458 may revolve around the bill's implementation requirements for Medicaid managed care organizations and the extent to which it holds these organizations accountable for patient outcomes. Proponents argue that it is crucial to enhance healthcare provision for a traditionally underserved population, while opponents may express concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on managed care organizations. There could also be discussions on the adequacy of funding and resources necessary to implement the proposed strategies effectively.