The bill amends Section 23-13-14 of the General Laws concerning the newborn screening program, expanding the list of healthcare professionals authorized to conduct newborn screening tests to include midwives, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. It mandates that newborns undergo screening for metabolic, endocrine, and hemoglobinopathy disorders, as well as other conditions that benefit from early detection and treatment. The Department of Health is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations regarding the storage, access, and use of residual newborn screening specimens, classifying this data as protected health information.

The bill emphasizes that all personally identifiable information related to newborns and their screening must be used solely for the purposes of the newborn screening program, such as medical intervention and counseling. Access to de-identified information is limited to the Department of Health and individuals with a valid scientific interest, provided they agree in writing to maintain confidentiality as prescribed by the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 and the Confidentiality of Health Care Information Act. Newborn screening specimens and related information shall not be subject to subpoena or discovery, nor shall it be admissible as evidence in any legal proceedings. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5495: 23-13-14