The bill amends Section 24-1-6 of the New Mexico Statutes to establish additional screening requirements for congenital heart disease in newborn infants. It mandates that every newborn undergo screening for critical congenital heart disease using a pulse oximeter before discharge from the hospital or birthing facility. The bill defines "pulse oximeter" as a device that measures the oxygen saturation of arterial blood. Furthermore, if a healthcare provider deems it necessary based on a screening questionnaire, further evaluation is required for newborns with specific risk factors related to heart disease, including family history of congenital heart disease or sudden cardiac death.

Additionally, the bill updates the list of organizations whose recommendations the secretary should consider when determining other congenital diseases to screen for, now including the American Society of Echocardiography and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The legislation emphasizes the importance of educational programs for healthcare professionals and the public regarding congenital diseases and requires that all hospitals perform these screening tests unless parents or guardians provide written objection.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-1-6
CP substitute: 24-1-6