Bill > A07204

This bill establishes protocols for healthcare facilities in New York to follow when a stillbirth occurs. The bill requires the Commissioner of Health, in consultation with various medical boards, to develop comprehensive policies and procedures for facilities providing birthing and newborn care services. These policies must address various aspects, including assigning a primary physician, assessing the family's awareness, providing emotional support, and training staff to handle stillbirths sensitively. Additionally, the bill requires the establishment of a fetal death evaluation protocol to collect data on stillbirths and a database to analyze the causes and prevention of stillbirths. The bill also mandates a report to the Governor and Legislature on the findings of the evaluation within five years of the law's effective date.