MA S847

Requires MassHealth to cover rapid whole genome sequencing as a separately payable Medicaid service for beneficiaries age 21 or younger with complex or acute illness of unknown cause who are in an intensive care unit or high acuity pediatric care unit

Defines rapid whole genome sequencing as testing of the entire human genome that returns preliminary positive results within 5 days and final results within 14 days, including patient-only, duo, or trio sequencing with biological parents

Establishes detailed medical necessity criteria including congenital anomalies, abnormal newborn screens, refractory seizures, cardiomyopathies, severe metabolic disorders, and other conditions where timely genetic diagnosis would guide treatment decisions

Requires genetic data generated from testing to be protected under HIPAA and related federal privacy regulations, with primary use limited to diagnosis and treatment

Directs the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to implement the coverage, including promulgating regulations and submitting any necessary waiver applications to CMS to secure federal financial participation