Healthcare (Children's Health)

This bill is a Senate concurrent resolution that formally honors Dr. Lewis R. First and the University of Vermont Medical Center for their contributions to pediatric care. The measure recognizes Dr. First's distinguished career, including his long tenure as the chair of pediatrics at the University of Vermont and his leadership at Golisano Children's Hospital. It highlights his professional achievements, such as editing a major medical journal and receiving numerous awards for his work in education and healthcare. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the document to Dr. First and the relevant medical institutions.

This bill (S.251) requires health insurance plans in Vermont to cover the medically necessary diagnosis and treatment of PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) and PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) for children. It mandates coverage for specific treatments like antibiotics, mental health services, and immune-related therapies, without higher cost-sharing than for other conditions. Insurers must follow current clinical guidelines for these treatments and temporarily use "autoimmune encephalitis" as a billing code until specific PANDAS/PANS codes are created. The law takes effect January 1, 2027, applying to all new or renewed health insurance plans after that date.