Relative to supporting families dealing with sudden unexplained death in pediatrics
Impact
The proposed amendments will significantly impact how pediatric deaths deemed as sudden and unexplained are managed in Massachusetts. By mandating the involvement of the chief medical examiner in providing not only genetic testing but also facilitating access to counseling services, the bill seeks to ensure that affected families receive comprehensive support during an exceptionally traumatic period. This includes referrals to specialized centers like the Massachusetts Center for Unexpected Infant and Child Death for grief counseling, which could enhance the coping mechanisms available for these families.
Summary
Senate Bill S105, introduced by Senator Joan B. Lovely, addresses a critical area of support for families affected by sudden unexplained deaths in children. This legislation aims to amend Chapter 38 of the General Laws of Massachusetts, specifically enhancing the procedures following unexpected pediatric deaths. The bill stipulates that when any such death requires an autopsy, except in cases of homicide, suicide, or an established cause, the chief medical examiner's office must actively engage services for the bereaved families, which includes genetic testing and ongoing grief support programs.
Contention
While supporting families during bereavement is paramount, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the proposed services, including the resources required by the chief medical examiner's office. Critics may question whether the provisions for genetic testing and bereavement support are sufficiently funded and if they can be enacted in a timely manner. Furthermore, there may be debates about the appropriateness of interventions in cases where the circumstances of death are still being investigated or remain mysterious, thus necessitating a balance between care and procedural integrity.
Autopsies, determination of cause of death, and certification of coroner fees in situations involving the unexplained sudden death in infant or child with or without intrinsic or extrinsic factors, or both.
Provides for identification and study of infant fatalities and near fatalities resulting from vaccination; requires inclusion of vaccination information in sudden infant death reports; and requires use of federal infant death reporting form.