Michigan Advocacy Update
Sarah Procario, Advocacy Director, Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan
2023: A New Start
Unfortunately, the Michigan Senate did not take action on Michigan’s copay accumulator legislation in 2022. While we are disappointed that HB 4353 did not pass last year, we are incredibly proud of our collective efforts and grateful to our previous bill sponsor, Representative Bronna Kahle, for all her efforts to pass this important patient reform before the end of her term.
HFM and the Michigan All Copays Count (MACC) Coalition are optimistic about 2023 and welcome the opportunity to reintroduce the importance of patient assistance that counts to the roughly 60 new lawmakers in the 2023 Michigan legislature. The coalition is currently working to secure a new sponsor with an aim to reintroduce the bill this spring.
Reform through the legislative process can be slow and frustrating, yet we remain committed to protecting patients from excessive out of pocket costs.
Policy Partnerships
HFM is proud to support two other state-wide efforts to pass patient centered health reforms.
The Health Can’t Wait Coalition led the efforts to pass prior authorization reform that was successfully signed into law last year—a wonderful win for the patient community. The group is currently working to introduce a step therapy bill to ensure patients are protected from the consequences of a requirement to ‘fail’ treatment. HFM is a member of Health Can’t Wait and will share with the bleeding disorders community when the bill is introduced.
Additionally, HFM is working closely with patient advocates to pass legislation that will establish a Rare Disease Advisory Committee to give the rare community a stronger voice in the Michigan government. Representative Jason Morgan is sponsoring this important piece of legislation; we look forward to working with him to ensure patient voices are heard.
Ohio Advocacy Update
Randi Clites, State Policy Director, Ohio Bleeding Disorder Council
In Ohio, the Next Generation Managed Care Initiative has launched. There are now three new MCOs – Humana, Anthem, & AmeriHealth Caritas. Gainwell Technologies has reported there may be some provider portal elements that could be delayed up to 6 months. As most of you likely know, the Public Health Emergency unwinding is confirmed to begin on April 1, 2023. Ohio Medicaid will begin redeterminations and the process will take up to 12 months. Remind patients they should watch their mail closely for notifications of eligibility status changes. If you experience any delays or concerns with the transition, please contact Randi@nohf.org.
