MA H5040

Requires the Department of Public Health to establish a screening program for PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) and PANS (Pediatric Acute Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) for all children, with best practice standards developed by a medical professional consortium.

Mandates physicians, child psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and mental health counselors to screen pediatric patients for PANDAS/PANS at intervals specified in state regulations.

Requires all licensed healthcare facilities serving children, including hospitals, clinics, and HMOs, to ensure patients receive PANDAS/PANS screening.

Expands insurance coverage under multiple chapters of General Laws (32A, 175, 176A, 176B, 176G) to include screening in addition to existing treatment coverage for these conditions.

Department of Public Health must promulgate working criteria and regulations within 180 days; provider screening requirements take effect 270 days after the act's effective date.