Iowa House Bill HF2053

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the cardiac health of children, and providing for licensee discipline and civil penalties.

Impact

The implementation of HF2053 is expected to enhance the screening and management of cardiac health among children, potentially reducing incidents of undiagnosed cardiac conditions that could lead to serious health outcomes, including sudden cardiac arrest. The bill establishes a standardized protocol for healthcare providers, thereby improving the quality of care received by children during routine examinations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the state’s commitment to safeguarding the health of student athletes, addressing a critical area of public health.

Summary

House File 2053 addresses the cardiac health of children in Iowa, requiring healthcare providers to be trained in specific cardiac evaluations as part of their practice. This bill mandates that by January 1, 2025, any provider conducting annual well-child examinations or interscholastic physical evaluations for children 19 years of age or younger must complete a professional development training module focused on cardiac health. This training aims to ensure that providers can adequately assess potential cardiac issues among young patients, especially those involved in sports.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding this bill may stem from the additional requirements placed on healthcare providers, which some may view as burdensome. There are concerns regarding the ability of practices, especially smaller ones, to meet the new training requirements and the potential financial implications related to the enforcement of compliance, including civil penalties for noncompliance. Additionally, the necessity of additional administrative steps for providers, such as reporting and record-keeping associated with the implementation of the child cardiac health evaluation forms, may prompt debate among medical professionals and policymakers.