The American Heart Association, March of Dimes, the American Academy of Pediatrics and other infant health advocates in Wisconsin are pressuring the Wisconsin Legislature to pass companion bills that would force hospitals to screen all newborns born in the state for critical congenital heart disease.The bills, SB 104 and AB 111, introduced by Sen. Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon) and Rep. Joel Kleefisch (R-Oconomowoc) in March and April, respectively, are both at the committee level. Advocates estimate the cost of screening at $4 per infant, and insurance usually covers the procedure. Because all hospitals already have pulse oximeters, advocates argue the mandate will not add a financial burden on hospitals.
