New Jersey Assembly Bill A4898

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/5/22
• Refer: 12/5/22

Caption

Requires DOH to develop shared decision-making tool and establish maternal health care pilot program.

Impact

The bill sets forth a pilot program that will be implemented for three years, during which selected maternity care facilities across New Jersey will utilize and assess the effectiveness of the shared decision-making tool. The program will involve a comprehensive evaluation process to analyze various maternal health outcomes, including the rates of cesarean sections, labor inductions, and the creation of birth plans. This data collection may impact how maternity care practices are evaluated and improved statewide.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4898 mandates the New Jersey Department of Health to create a shared decision-making tool specifically designed for maternity care hospitals and licensed birthing centers. The primary objective of this tool is to enhance patient knowledge about the benefits and risks associated with maternity care and encourage collaboration between patients and their healthcare providers. By promoting informed decision-making, the bill aims to improve patient experiences and reduce negative outcomes associated with pregnancy.

Contention

While the bill promotes a voluntary approach toward the use of the shared decision-making tool, there may be concerns regarding its implementation in different healthcare settings. Questions may arise about how the hospitals will be selected for the pilot program and whether the tool will be effectively utilized across diverse regions of the state. Furthermore, the focus on voluntary participation could lead to inconsistencies in patient education and care practices among different facilities, potentially creating disparities in maternal health outcomes.