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The state legislature approved a bill filed by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Mark C. Montigny (D-New Bedford) that will provide insurance coverage for patients afflicted with serious side effects from HIV medications, commonly known as lipodystrophy. Lipodystrophy is a condition that results in abnormal fat accumulations around the head and neck or excessive fat loss in the face and limbs. This can lead to head and neck pain, inability to sleep, posture issues, and result in a poor quality of life. Excessive fat loss can also result in “facial wasting,” stigmatizing the patient and serving as a modern day Scarlet Letter for people living with HIV.
The Department of Public Health estimates that there are roughly 400 people suffering from the condition in the Commonwealth, and in New Bedford, the Community Health Center serves approximately 60 patients with lipodystrophy. In May 2014 the Center for Health Information and Analysis estimated that coverage for this treatment would result in a mere per person monthly premium increase of between $.01 and $.10 per year over five years.
“No longer can insurance companies deny humane treatment to patients, hiding behind the bogus claim that such care is merely cosmetic in nature,” said Senator Mark Montigny, Assistant Majority Leader and Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee. “What we are saying here today is that no person suffering from such a devastating condition should live without the basic feeling of self-worth, respect and dignity that many of us take for granted. Moving forward, this legislation ensures that treatments will be covered.”
“People living with lipodystrophy who have survived the AIDS epidemic will no longer be consigned to lives as shut-ins or objects of ridicule. This historic bill continues Massachusetts’ leadership ensuring sound and compassionate healthcare for people with HIV,” stated Bennett Klein, AIDS Law Project Director at GLAD, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders.
“We are deeply grateful to Sen Montigny, Sen Pres Rosenberg, Rep Peake and Speaker DeLeo for their leadership and advocacy on this very important bill. Their actions today will improve the lives of hundreds of MA residents who have suffered for decades with this cruel disease.,” said Arline Isaacson, Co-Chair,Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus.
Earlier this year the Senate passed Montigny’s measure unanimously, sending the bill to the House. The House has now approved the legislation, and it will head to Governor Baker’s desk for final approval.
