Governor Rell Signs Bill That Shields Doctors in Treatment of Lyme Disease

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Donna Tommelleo, 860-884-8472

 

June 21, 2009 donna.tommelleo

 

 

 

Governor Rell Signs Bill That Shields

 

Doctors in Treatment of Lyme Disease

 

 

 

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she has signed a bill allowing

doctors to prescribe long-term antibiotics in the treatment of persistent Lyme

disease --outside of standard guidelines -- without fear of sanctions from

state health regulators if the patient's clinical diagnosis of the

tick-borne disease and treatment have been documented by a licensed physician.

 

 

" Doctors in Connecticut -- the absolute epicenter of Lyme disease -- can

continue to do what is best for their patients suffering from this complex

illness. I think most people know someone who has been infected, " Governor

Rell said. " The bill also recognizes that Lyme disease patients must have

the freedom to choose which remedy or regimen best meets their needs. "

 

 

The disease gets its name from the shoreline town of Lyme, Connecticut,

where in 1975 a cluster of children and adults there experienced uncommon

arthritic symptoms Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease

is spread through the bite of infected deer ticks. Symptoms include a rash,

fatigue, headache, fever, and achy muscles and joints. Later symptoms may

include arthritis, neurological problems, and heart problems.

 

 

 

House Bill 6200, which gained broad bipartisan support in the Legislature,

was prompted by an ongoing debate in the medical community. Some health

organizations have questioned the existence of chronic Lyme disease and the

Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has cautioned against the

long-term use of antibiotics. Some physicians were hesitant to treat patients

outside the IDSA guidelines because of potential reprimands from medical

boards and insurance companies.

 

 

" Doctors will have the right to use treatment guidelines based on their

clinical experience and best medical judgment " , Governor Rell said. " This

bill does not, however, shield any physician who provides substandard

care. "