Protecting Vulnerable Newborn and Infant Children

Oct 2, 2020

Summary

Makes sure all babies born alive get the medical care they need, no matter if they are born early or with a disability.

What problem does this solve?

Some hospitals refuse to provide life-saving medical care to very premature or disabled newborn babies. This order directs the government to enforce laws that require hospitals receiving federal money to provide this care.

What does this order do?

Enforces existing medical protection laws

Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make sure all federally funded programs know their duty to provide medical care to all infants born alive, including those born early or with disabilities.

Ties federal funding to compliance

Directs the Secretary to ensure federal money is only spent by programs that follow laws protecting newborn infants. Non-compliant programs could have their federal funding terminated.

Creates a complaint and investigation process

Orders the Secretary to investigate complaints about hospitals not providing care and to create a simple way for parents and staff to submit these complaints.

Prioritizes funding for research and training

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services to give priority for grants to research that improves infant survival and to hospitals that train staff in providing life-saving care.

Who does this affect?

Newborn infants, especially those born prematurely or with disabilities
Parents of newborn infants
Hospitals and medical staff that receive federal funding

What is the real world impact?

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Ensures equal medical rights for all infants

Aims to enforce existing laws that guarantee all infants born alive, including those who are premature or have disabilities, receive necessary medical screening and stabilizing treatment.

When does this start?

This order became effective when it was signed on September 25, 2020.