Lyme Disease in Pennsylvania: Senate Bill 100
New Senate Bill would allow for greater insurance coverage of Lyme Disease diagnostics and treatment.
Lyme disease poses a significant health challenge in Pennsylvania, with approximately 100,000 residents contracting the disease each year. This high incidence rate has led to widespread chronic symptoms affecting as many as 40,000 people annually. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing Lyme disease, yet many patients struggle to receive proper care due to inadequate testing and diagnosis by healthcare providers.
Senate Bill 100 aims to address these issues by improving Lyme disease testing and ensuring coverage for the necessary treatments. The bill mandates insurance coverage for long-term treatment plans, which is critical given that the current costs, which can reach up to $24,000 per person annually, are largely borne by patients. Additionally, SB100 seeks to enhance public and medical community awareness, which is essential for early detection and treatment.
Failure to pass SB100 could have severe consequences. Without improved testing and insurance coverage, many individuals may continue to suffer from debilitating symptoms without adequate care. The economic burden on families will persist, and the state’s healthcare system will remain strained. By passing this bill, Pennsylvania can lead in the fight against Lyme disease, ensuring better health outcomes and reducing the long-term economic impact on its residents.
For more details on SB100 and its implications, refer to LymeDisease.org. For other Pennsylvania Lyme Disease resources, visit PA Lyme Resource Network.
