This bill seeks to improve care for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) by introducing several key initiatives, including fertility preservation services, the establishment of a Statewide Steering Committee on Sickle Cell Disease, and a detection and education program. It amends Chapter 118E of the General Laws to define terms related to iatrogenic infertility and sets criteria for "qualified enrollees" eligible for fertility preservation due to medical treatments. The bill mandates the division of medical assistance to apply for a Medicaid waiver to cover these services and requires commercial insurance policies to provide coverage for necessary fertility preservation expenses.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of awareness and data management regarding SCD. It mandates the annual report to include strategies for a sickle cell disease awareness program and requires organizations receiving grants to provide data as requested by the commissioner. A comprehensive data collection system will be established, requiring hospitals and healthcare providers to report specific patient information, which the Department of Public Health will compile and publish while ensuring patient confidentiality. Additionally, the bill outlines the development of a quality strategy within Medicaid managed care, mandating accessible healthcare for individuals with SCD, integrated care management, and genetic counseling, with specific goals and accountability measures to be implemented by January 1, 2027.