(1) The Legislature finds that rare diseases collectively affect a substantial number of residents of the State of Mississippi and frequently result in delayed diagnosis, limited treatment options, fragmented care delivery, and significant financial burdens for patients and their families. The Legislature further finds that certain insurance coverage practices, including the use of alternative funding programs, may improperly limit or delay access to medically necessary therapies for individuals living with rare diseases.
(2) The purpose of this chapter is to establish a coordinated, expert-driven Rare Disease Task Force to identify gaps in care, evaluate funding and insurance coverage practices, advise policymakers on evidence-based solutions, and ensure fair, timely, and equitable access to rare disease therapies in the State of Mississippi.