This bill amends the Newborn Child Testing Act of September 9, 1965, specifically enhancing the Newborn Child Screening and Follow-up Program. The amendment adds a new subparagraph to Section 3(a)(1), which mandates that the program include screening tests for Gaucher disease among other conditions. This addition aims to assist healthcare providers in determining necessary treatments or services to prevent intellectual or physical disabilities and potential death in newborns.
The bill emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention for genetic diseases, thereby improving health outcomes for affected infants. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and protocols can be established promptly to incorporate Gaucher disease screening into the existing program.