This bill amends Chapter 111 of the General Laws to include congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the list of conditions for which newborn screenings are required. Specifically, it inserts "congenital cytomegalovirus" after "dystrophy" in Section 110A. Additionally, the bill establishes new sections that mandate the creation of a public information program to raise awareness about CMV, requiring healthcare providers to distribute evidence-based information about CMV screening and preventative measures to expectant and new parents. Hospitals and birthing facilities are also required to provide this information at the first prenatal appointment or at the time of any screening.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the regulations for CMV screening, which must be performed using a saliva PCR test, with a confirmatory urine PCR test required if the saliva test is positive. It mandates that screening results be communicated to parents and primary care physicians, and that screenings occur within 21 days of birth. The bill also establishes an advisory committee to guide the implementation of these regulations and requires that the costs of CMV screenings be covered by health insurers. Universal CMV screenings are to be implemented by July 1, 2027, with hospitals adopting necessary protocols by January 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 111-110A