Those with bleeding disorders could get state aid

Those suffering from debilitating and costly bleeding disorders may soon receive monetary aid from the state.

Rep. David Litvack, D-Salt Lake, passed his bill favorably through the House Health and Human Services Committee on Tuesday with the help of testimony from several people who deal with bleeding disorders on a daily basis.

HB33 establishes a grant of $250,000 for use by the Utah Department of Health to help individuals pay for treatment, which can be very costly.

The bill would assist eligible Utahns with the payment of costly insurance premiums and co-payments for medications that help combat their disorders. Many who suffer from bleeding disorders reach their lifetime maximum at a young age and are priced out of individual insurance plans.

Litvack said there are no words to explain the impact the passing of this bill would have on the individuals and families affected by such costly medical situations.