The 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 other 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 various therapies, such as intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, 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 and specifies that health coverage plans must comply with these requirements for any new policies issued on or after January 1, 2026. Existing plans must adjust to meet the new standards 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 care for affected children.