Shane DiGiovanna Act

More Medicaid wound care for EB

This bill would require the HHS Secretary to run a 2-year, nationwide Medicaid demonstration starting no later than 1 year after enactment. The demonstration would require states to include certain wound care items and services as mandatory Medicaid medical assistance for people with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) eligible under section 1902(a)(10)(A)(i). Covered items would include over-the-counter antihistamines; acetaminophen; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; antiseptics; zinc oxide; antibiotic ointments; and necessary wound supplies such as primary and secondary dressings, gauze, and bandage retainers. Not later than one year after the demonstration ends, the Secretary would report to Congress on Medicaid spending for EB patients, health outcomes compared to before the demonstration, and recommendations to prevent EB-related hospitalizations. If passed, this could lower out-of-pocket costs for Medicaid enrollees with EB and could help avoid costly hospital stays.