STATEHOUSE (Feb. 20, 2018) — State Rep. Heath VanNatter’s (R-Kokomo) proposal better ensuring swift and early detection of diseases in newborns could soon be law.
VanNatter’s legislation establishes blood samples must be taken from infants for required testing 24 hours after birth or immediately before being discharged. Newborn screenings help identify diseases in babies shortly after their births.
“Testing as soon as possible can provide families with more information about their baby in a timelier manner so that they can explore treatment options,” VanNatter said.
According to VanNatter, newborns are tested for 47 conditions in Indiana, including sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, hearing loss and critical congenital heart disease.
The legislation reflects the standard set by the Indiana State Department of Health and also ensure Indiana is keeping in step with other states.
House Enrolled Act 1287 can now be signed into law by the governor. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) represents House District 38,
which includes portions of Carroll, Cass, Howard and Clinton counties.
A high-resolution photo of VanNatter can be downloaded by clicking here.
