This bill enacts R.S. 22:1028.6, which mandates that all health coverage plans in Louisiana provide coverage for pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS), pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS), and various types of autoimmune encephalitis (AE). The legislation emphasizes the importance of early treatment for these conditions to prevent severe neurological damage and mental health issues. It outlines that coverage may include therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulin treatments and allows insurers to consider, but not strictly adhere to, treatment recommendations from medical professional consortia.
Additionally, the bill defines key terms related to the conditions it addresses and specifies that the provisions will apply to new health coverage plans issued on or after January 1, 2026. Existing plans must conform to the new requirements by their renewal date, but no later than January 1, 2027. The act is officially titled "The Gillian Guiffreda Act," highlighting its focus on improving health outcomes for affected children.