MS HB615

Creates the Concern for Children with Sickle Cell Disease Task Force to study and make recommendations to the Mississippi Legislature regarding the growing incidence of Sickle Cell Disease and ways to improve identification, treatment, and accommodation of affected individuals and families.

Task force membership consists of 13 members including three parents of children with Sickle Cell Disease (appointed by Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of House), school district and education representatives, State Department of Health representative, medical association representatives, University of Mississippi Medical Center representative, pediatrician, and nurse.

Task force shall review best practices from other states, evaluate Mississippi school district services and potential funding sources, assess medical screening and treatment availability, identify higher education workforce development opportunities, and make legislative recommendations for coordinated educational and medical services.

Task force must hold its first meeting by April 1, 2011, elect a chairman and officers, and file a report with relevant legislative committees and state agencies by December 1, 2011.

State Department of Health shall provide staff and support necessary for the task force to perform its duties.