Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB740

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to newborn screening for critical congenital heart disease and other disorders.

Impact

The bill has considerable implications for healthcare practices surrounding childbirth in Texas. By formalizing requirements for screening newborns for CCHD, it aims to standardize screening processes across hospitals and birthing facilities. The bill empowers the Department of State Health Services to develop guidelines for additional testing that may reflect best practices in pediatric care as determined by recommendations from recognized advisory committees. This proactive approach to healthcare aims to reduce the incidence of undetected congenital heart disease, ultimately improving health outcomes for newborns across the state.

Summary

House Bill 740 addresses the critical issue of newborn screening for congenital heart disease and other disorders by amending existing provisions in the Health and Safety Code related to the definitions, procedures, and requirements for screening. It specifically enhances the screening processes for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) to ensure timely identification and intervention, mandating that these vital checks occur before newborns are discharged from birthing facilities. The bill that has passed the legislature emphasizes the importance of early detection in preventing severe health outcomes for affected infants.

Contention

Notably, the bill may stir discussions regarding healthcare funding and resource allocation, especially as it relates to increased testing requirements. Concerns around the cost of implementing these screening procedures at various facilities and the implications for staff training and resource availability may arise. Moreover, while the bill attempts to mandate necessary screenings, parents retain the right to decline screening for their newborns, which could lead to debates about parental choice versus public health mandates. The expectation of transparency in screening processes and the retention of genetic materials are also highlighted, raising ethical considerations that may arise within the context of medical consent and privacy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB619

Relating to newborn and infant hearing screenings.

TX HB3212

Relating to newborn screening tests.

TX HB4068

Relating to newborn testing for congenital cytomegalovirus.

TX SB1285

Relating to newborn or infant testing for congenital cytomegalovirus.

TX HB2478

Relating to newborn and infant screening tests.

TX SB1667

Relating to newborn screening.

TX SB1697

Relating to an annual report regarding certain newborn screening tests.

TX HB4476

Relating to the provision of certain information about Medicaid benefits in relation to newborn children.

TX SB1458

Relating to the provision of certain information about Medicaid benefits in relation to newborn children.

TX HB1673

Relating to training requirements for staff members of certain assisted living facilities that provide care to persons with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.