An Act to improve sickle cell care

This bill requires MassHealth (Massachusetts' Medicaid program) to seek federal approval by January 2024 to cover standard fertility preservation services for MassHealth enrollees diagnosed with sickle cell disease or cancer who face infertility risks from treatment. It also mandates that all commercial health insurance policies must cover these services without discrimination based on health conditions, age, sex, or other personal characteristics. Additionally, the bill establishes a Statewide Steering Committee on Sickle Cell Disease within the Department of Public Health, including patient representatives, healthcare providers, and community advocates, to develop care standards and educational resources. The committee will oversee statewide partnerships and identify funding for sickle cell care improvements. This directly affects sickle cell disease patients, cancer patients facing fertility risks, insurers, and MassHealth.