BOSTON – Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced that the Massachusetts Senate passed legislation on Thursday which requires health insurers to provide coverage for treatment of lipodystrophy. This medical condition exists when abnormal fat accumulation exists around the head and neck, or when there I excessive fat loss exists in the face and limbs. Lipodystrophy is a known side effect of HIV antiretroviral treatment.
“The Senate has taken action to help improve the lives of HIV positive residents who have been afflicted with this debilitating medical condition,” said Sen. Moore. “The legislation will help ensure that treatment is not cost prohibitive for residents of the Commonwealth.”
Fat accumulations from lipodystrophy can cause serious head and neck pain, inability to sleep, posture issues, and result in a poor quality of life. Current treatment for lipodystrophy includes liposuction to remove excess fat accumulations or injectable facial fillers to prevent facial wasting. Insurance companies routinely deny claims for treatment saying these remedies are cosmetic.
“For years GLAD has represented people with lipodystrophy who could only get medical treatment if they lawyered up and threatened to sue their insurer,” said Bennett Klein, AIDS Law Project Director for GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). “We’re grateful to the Senate for its leadership ensuring that all people with HIV can get the health care they need and hope that today’s vote is a big step forward towards ending this injustice.”
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.