By Bob Katzen

The House referred to the Committee on Financial Services a bill that would amend and expand current law which mandates coverage for the expense of treatment of cleft palate and cleft lip for children under the age of 18. The bill would expand the law to include patients over the age of 18.

Supporters said that current law results in individuals over the age of 18 born with a cleft palate and/or cleft experiencing a “cliff effect,” where their insurance will automatically stop covering medically necessary treatments and surgeries despite appeals from both the patients and their medical providers.

“Expanding coverage for cleft palate and lip treatments would improve the lives of many and provide them with the support, dignity and care they deserve,” said sponsor Rep. Steven Ultrino (D-Malden).