An Act to provide rapid whole genome sequencing
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Create an account to take a stance, submit a written position, or contact your legislator.
Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to establish coverage for rapid whole genome sequencing for Massachusetts Medicaid beneficiaries under specific clinical criteria. It defines ‘rapid whole genome sequencing’ as a comprehensive genetic investigation with a turnaround time of 14 days. The coverage will be available for patients aged 21 and under with complex or acute illnesses of unknown etiology, meeting specific diagnostic criteria related to congenital anomalies, metabolic disorders, and other serious conditions. The bill also outlines reimbursement rates and data privacy protections for genetic information.
Key provisions
- Expands Medicaid coverage to include rapid whole genome sequencing for eligible patients.
- Defines ‘rapid whole genome sequencing’ with specific timelines for results.
- Establishes criteria for patient eligibility, focusing on complex or acute illnesses.
- Lists specific medical conditions that trigger consideration for rapid whole genome sequencing.
- Requires a separate reimbursement rate for rapid whole genome sequencing, distinct from inpatient payment models.
- Mandates notification to hospitals regarding the new reimbursement rate.
- Addresses data privacy and security of genetic information under HIPAA.
- Requires the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to implement the provisions and potentially seek waivers or amendments.
Who is affected
- Massachusetts Medicaid beneficiaries
Bill text
Read the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Text extraction is in progress. View the official source.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
4 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Health Care Financing
Cosponsors
Arguments
Reasons offered for and against this legislation.
Arguments in favor
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours