Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Care and Coverage for those with Congenital Anomalies and Birth Defects
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA). Approximately 3% of children nationwide are born with congenital anomalies - such as cleft lip or palate - and birth defects that, if gone untreated, can lead to lifelong medical complications. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would expand access to care for individuals with congenital anomalies or birth defects by requiring insurance companies to cover necessary treatment and procedures. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) and a companion bill has been introduced by Senators Baldwin (D-WI) and Ernst (R-IA).
"For far too long, countless patients, including children, have been unable to access treatment for congenital anomalies such as ectodermal dysplasias and cleft lip and palate because their health insurance refused to cover care, leaving them either without treatment or burdened with thousands of dollars in medical expenses,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “This bill would tackle this issue head-on by requiring private health insurance plans to cover medically necessary services for treating congenital anomalies and birth defects, thus allowing patients with these conditions to secure and afford the treatment they need.”
“Many families with children who are born with congenital anomalies face significant financial barriers to accessing the treatment their child needs. This treatment is not just cosmetic. These conditions can have long-term health consequences that can severely impact everyday life,” said Congressman Dunn. “This bipartisan and bicameral legislation will help alleviate the financial hardship that many families endure to get their children the vital care they need. I’m proud to lead this important initiative and would like to thank my colleagues for helping us put a smile on every child’s face.”
“For millions of Americans, medically necessary care for birth defects can cost thousands of dollars out of pocket, or for others, it is entirely out of reach because of the cost – despite having health insurance,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud to work with Democrats and Republicans to put this care in reach so more Americans can lead healthy lives, and more families can focus on caring for their loved ones, not figuring out how they will afford medically necessary care.”
“To support young Iowans like Alli Steele, who was born with Ectodermal Dysplasia, this bipartisan legislation will help Iowa families by ensuring that health plans cover medically necessary services related to patients’ congenital anomalies of the eyes, ears, teeth, mouth, or jaw,” said Senator Ernst.