2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26105332D

HOUSE BILL NO. 1391

Offered January 21, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 32.1 an article numbered 22.1, consisting of a section numbered 32.1-73.27:1, relating to Sickle Cell Coordinated Access Network established.

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Patrons—Hayes, Carr, Cole, J.G., Cousins, Gardner, Helmer, Hernandez, Maldonado, McClure, Price, Sewell and Tran

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Referred to Committee on Health and Human Services

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 32.1 an article numbered 22.1, consisting of a section numbered 32.1-73.27:1, as follows:

Article 22.1.

Sickle Cell Coordinated Access Network.

§ 32.1-73.27:1. Sickle Cell Coordinated Access Network established; purpose.

A. As used in this section:

"Network" means the Sickle Cell Coordinated Access Network.

"Sickle cell specialist" means a health care professional who specializes in the treatment of sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease.

B. The Commissioner shall establish and maintain the Sickle Cell Coordinated Access Network, in collaboration with and under the Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems Authority, for the purpose of providing health care providers in the Commonwealth with real-time consultation and support from sickle cell specialists.

C. The Network shall ensure that sickle cell specialists are available for telehealth consultation with health care providers at all times. Sickle cell specialists participating in the Network shall provide (i) guidance on pain management, (ii) consultation on treatment protocols, and (iii) coordination of care to health care providers.