Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05) has partnered with Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) to introduce H.R. 6892, the Medical Nutrition Equity Act. This bill aims to ensure that medically necessary food, vitamins, and individual amino acids are covered for Americans with digestive and inherited metabolic disorders. Without access to this vital nutrition, patients face severe health risks, including unnecessary surgery, hospitalization, intellectual disability, or even death.

Congressman Rutherford, who serves as the co-chair of the Crohn's and Colitis Caucus, expressed his support for the legislation, stating, "Our health systems must be structured to support innovative treatments. I am excited to join Rep. McGovern in introducing this important legislation that would make medically necessary nutrition more easily accessible to patients across our nation."

Congressman McGovern shared the heart-wrenching stories he has heard from constituents who struggle to access medically necessary formulas for themselves or their children. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one has to face barriers in receiving proper care, saying, "To me, this is simple: no one should struggle to get medically necessary formulas, and insurance companies shouldn't create more barriers to receiving proper care. Our bill cuts through the red tape and ensures that those with inherited metabolic diseases or gastrointestinal conditions can access the nutrition they need."

Every year, approximately 2,000 infants are diagnosed with an inherited metabolic disorder. If left untreated, these conditions can prevent the body from absorbing necessary nutrients, making food toxic. Without access to specialty formulas, patients are forced to go without adequate nutrition or seek hospitalization to maintain their nutrition levels. While 40 states already require coverage of medically necessary nutrition, the level of coverage varies greatly from state to state and does not apply to patients covered by private sector health plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.

This bill builds on the precedent set by the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act, which improved coverage for medical nutrition for military families enrolled in TRICARE. By expanding access to medically necessary nutrition, more Americans will be able to receive the vital care they need.

The Medical Nutrition Equity Act is an important step towards ensuring that individuals with digestive and inherited metabolic disorders have access to the nutrition they need for their overall well-being. With the support of Congressman Rutherford and Congressman McGovern, it is hoped that this legislation will pave the way for a healthier future for all Americans.