Creates provisions relating to sickle cell disease
Additionally, the bill mandates the Missouri HealthNet divisions to conduct an annual review of medications and treatment forms available for sickle cell disease. This review aims to evaluate whether the current treatment options are adequate for beneficiaries diagnosed with the disease. The review will also investigate promising treatments based on late-stage studies featured in peer-reviewed literature, ensuring that advancements in care are recognized and utilized effectively.
House Bill 2653 introduces significant provisions aimed at addressing sickle cell disease within the state. The bill designates the third full week in September as 'Sickle Cell Awareness Week', promoting activities to increase awareness and improve treatment options for patients. This initiative seeks to educate the public and stakeholders about sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder that affects many individuals, particularly within minority populations. This formal recognition emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this condition and the challenges faced by those afflicted by it.
A point of contention surrounding HB2653 may arise from the potential implications for healthcare funding and resource allocation to ensure the effective implementation of the mandated reviews. The requirement for public accessibility of these reviews also raises questions regarding transparency and accountability. Stakeholders, including healthcare providers and patients' advocacy groups, might have differing perspectives on how best to support individuals with sickle cell disease and the role of state programs in this endeavor.