U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, and Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) have introduced new legislation aimed at increasing transparency in hospital policies for premature infant care. The proposed Neonatal Care Transparency Act would require hospitals to clearly disclose their policies regarding life-saving treatment for infants born before full term.
The move comes in response to reports that some hospitals do not provide life-saving care to premature babies unless they have reached a certain gestational age.
“Families shouldn’t face uncertainty during early labor about whether their premature baby will receive life-saving care from a hospital or not. When a baby’s survival is on the line, parents deserve clear information,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I’m proud to support this legislation that requires hospitals to be transparent about their policies. It’s a commonsense measure that protects vulnerable infants and supports families in critical moments.”
“When faced with an early birth parents should be able to ensure that the delivery hospital is equipped and prepared to provide care for their child. This bill will provide parents with the information needed to welcome their child into the world safely,” said Senator Cotton.
If enacted, the Neonatal Care Transparency Act (S.2433) would mandate that hospitals publicly share their policies on providing care for premature infants. Additionally, health care practitioners would be required to inform patients of these policies during initial consultations.
Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) are also original cosponsors of the bill.
