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 congenital diseases that must be screened for, incorporating recommendations from the American Society of Echocardiography and the American Academy of Pediatrics. It maintains the provision that parents or guardians can waive the testing requirements in writing. The Department of Health is tasked with implementing these screening tests and providing educational programs about congenital diseases to healthcare professionals and the public.

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