Bill > A1996

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for healthcare providers in New Jersey to evaluate and support pregnant and postpartum individuals for hypertensive disorders related to pregnancy, specifically expanding beyond just preeclampsia. Under the proposed law, every licensed birthing center, federally qualified health center, and healthcare practitioner providing prenatal or postpartum care must adopt policies to evaluate patients for hypertensive disorders within 12 weeks after giving birth if they show symptoms. Healthcare providers must provide evidence-based information about these conditions, inform patients about the importance of evaluation, and discuss evaluation results with patients. If a positive evaluation occurs, providers must develop an evidence-based treatment plan to minimize the patient's risk. The bill also requires the Commissioner of Health and relevant medical boards to develop educational materials about these disorders and distribute them to healthcare facilities. The Commissioner and State Board of Medical Examiners are authorized to create necessary rules and regulations to implement the law, which will take effect 180 days after enactment. The expanded focus on hypertensive disorders aims to improve maternal health monitoring and support by ensuring systematic screening, education, and follow-up care.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A1996