HR318 Summary

• Commends the Alabama Department of Public Health for implementing a policy requiring pulse oximetry testing on all newborns prior to discharge.

• Recognizes congenital heart defects (CHDs) affect approximately 7-9 of every 1,000 live births and are the leading cause of infant death due to birth defects.

• Notes pulse oximetry is a noninvasive test that detects blood oxygen saturation and is more effective at identifying critical, life-threatening CHDs when performed within 24 hours of birth compared to current screening methods.

• Commends the Alabama Hospital Association, Medical Association of Alabama, Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Heart Association for collaborating with the Department of Public Health on this policy change.

• Directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to the Alabama Department of Public Health and the participating healthcare organizations.