Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act

senate

house

president

Legislation Details

The legislation aims to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide guidance on best practices for screening and treatment of congenital syphilis under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
It highlights a significant increase in syphilis cases in the U.S., with a reported 80% rise since 2018, leading to a corresponding increase in congenital syphilis cases among newborns.
Congenital syphilis can result in severe health issues for infants, including miscarriage, lifelong medical problems, and even death.
The bill emphasizes the importance of timely testing and treatment during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis, noting that nearly 90% of cases could be prevented with proper care.
It points out the variability in state requirements for syphilis screening among pregnant women, with many states lacking comprehensive screening protocols.
The legislation calls for improved access to syphilis screening for pregnant women and infants, as well as enhanced education for medical professionals and patients.
It encourages the integration of telehealth services to facilitate better access to care and information regarding congenital syphilis.
The Secretary is tasked with submitting a report to Congress within two years of enactment, analyzing the implementation of the best practices outlined in the guidance.

The legislation aims to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide guidance on best practices for screening and treatment of congenital syphilis under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
It highlights a significant increase in syphilis cases in the U.S., with a reported 80% rise since 2018, leading to a corresponding increase in congenital syphilis cases among newborns.
Congenital syphilis can result in severe health issues for infants, including miscarriage, lifelong medical problems, and even death.
The bill emphasizes the importance of timely testing and treatment during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis, noting that nearly 90% of cases could be prevented with proper care.
It points out the variability in state requirements for syphilis screening among pregnant women, with many states lacking comprehensive screening protocols.
The legislation calls for improved access to syphilis screening for pregnant women and infants, as well as enhanced education for medical professionals and patients.
It encourages the integration of telehealth services to facilitate better access to care and information regarding congenital syphilis.
The Secretary is tasked with submitting a report to Congress within two years of enactment, analyzing the implementation of the best practices outlined in the guidance.