Since Senate Bill 938 urges newborns to be tested before hospital discharge, the accuracy of tests in the first hours of life is important. Some pediatricians suggest that it is more appropriate and effective to screen infants at regular 2 and 4-month check ups. Some Pennsylvania hospitals already have universal screening programs. Information from these programs and from other states suggests that universal screening may be accomplished without a legislative mandate. Funding for screening programs come from a variety of sources.
Some hospitals elect to operate a screening program as a marketing strategy or as a public service.
Even if a universal newborn hearing program were to be established, the Council received strong opposition to imposing an insurance mandate. Finally, the Council's enabling legislation provides for a preliminary review of submitted materials to determine if the documentation received is sufficient to proceed with the formal Mandated Benefits Review process outlined in Act 34 of 1993. About the Council Please let the webmaster know if you had any problems accessing any of our data or services. Copyright 1998 PHC4.