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, in accordance with the federal Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP). The bill also stipulates that parents can opt out of these tests on religious grounds. Additionally, it establishes a fee structure for the newborn screening program, which must be covered by health insurers, and outlines the responsibilities of hospitals and healthcare facilities regarding billing.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the Department of Health to create regulations regarding the storage, access, and use of residual newborn screening specimens, classifying this data as protected health information. It ensures that all personally identifiable information related to newborns and their screening is used solely for the program's purposes, with strict confidentiality measures in place. The bill also creates a restricted receipt account known as the "newborn screening account" to manage funds related to the program. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
686: 23-13-14