President Bush Signs the Sickle Cell Treatment Act

SCDAA is proud to announce that President George W. Bush signed the bipartisan Sickle Cell Treatment Act of 2003 (S.874/H.R. 1736) into law. The Sickle Cell Treatment Act, which was approved by Congress on October 7, was sponsored by U.S. Senators Charles Schumer (D, New York) and Jim Talent (R, Missouri); and Representatives Danny Davis (D, Illinois) and Richard Burr (R, North Carolina).

The Sickle Cell Treatment Act became a reality through the efforts of patients and their families, policymakers and advocacy groups, including SCDAA. We would like to extend a special thank you to the National Medical Association, the American Medical Association, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the NAACP for working to support all who suffer from sickle cell disease.

The bipartisan effort to pass this legislation and the president’s approval gives hope to millions of sickle cell patients who are not receiving the quality healthcare they deserve.

The legislation allows states to receive federal funding for patient counseling, educational initiatives and community outreach programs. Patients can also receive federal matching funds for sickle cell disease-related services under Medicaid. The new law also sets the groundwork for the development of 40 sickle cell treatment centers located across the country and establishes a National Coordinating Center for Sickle Cell Disease.

The Sickle Cell Treatment Act marks a significant victory in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease. SCDAA is pleased to know that this new law moves us closer to our goal of finding a universal cure for sickle cell disease and improving the healthcare of those affected by sickle cell.