In August, Massachusetts became the first state in the country to legally mandate insurance coverage for the treatment of HIV-associated lipodystrophy. The condition, characterized by a redistribution of body fat that can cause painful growths on the neck and spine as well as stigmatizing facial wasting, is a side effect of early HIV medications. As a result, it affects long-term survivors disproportionately, causing restricted mobility, pain and depression. Previously, insurers denied coverage for treatment, which includes liposuction and fillers, on the grounds that the condition caused only cosmetic distress. After years of advocacy, the new law went into effect on November 6 and paves the way for other states to follow suit. The excitement on social media was palpable.