November 17, 2023
State lawmakers this week unanimously passed a bill that supports critical care for low birth-weight babies and other medically compromised infants.
Senate Bill 500, also known as “Owen’s Law,” requires Medical Assistance coverage for medically prescribed pasteurized donor human milk in inpatient and outpatient settings for medically fragile infants under the age of 12 months. The bill, sponsored by Senator Michele Brooks (R-Greenville), passed through both chambers earlier this week and was presented to the governor on Wednesday.
Here’s what you need to know:
In a letter this month, HAP expressed support for the law and highlighted the importance of this lifesaving resource at a critical time in their care.
“Representing hospitals and health systems across the commonwealth, our charge is to support equitable access to care for all Pennsylvanians across their lifespan,” the HAP letter said. “SB 500 effectuates policy that would achieve this mission by increasing access to life-changing and lifesaving care for some of our most vulnerable patients, medically compromised infants.”
Additional information about the bill is available online.
For more information, contact Heather Tyler, vice president, state legislative advocacy.
Tags: Access to Care | State Advocacy
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