H.R. 3866: Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act

This bill, titled the Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act, aims to address the rising cases of syphilis in the United States, especially focusing on its impact during pregnancy and its effects on infants. Here's a breakdown of what the bill proposes:

Background and Findings

The bill highlights several key findings regarding the state of syphilis in the U.S.:

• In 2023, the U.S. saw over 209,000 cases of syphilis, marking the highest level since 1950.
• Cases of congenital syphilis (syphilis passed from mother to child) have increased significantly, with over 3,800 cases reported, resulting in numerous stillbirths and infant deaths.
• Congenital syphilis can lead to severe health issues including miscarriage, lifelong medical problems, and developmental delays for affected infants.

Objectives of the Bill

The primary objectives of the bill include:

• Enhancing the screening processes for syphilis among pregnant women.
• Improving education about syphilis for both medical professionals and pregnant women.
• Encouraging better practices around the treatment of syphilis and congenital syphilis.

Guidance to State Medicaid Programs

The bill mandates that within 12 months of its enactment, the Secretary of Health and Human Services must:

• Issue guidance for Medicaid programs and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) that includes:
• Strategies to improve access to syphilis screening for pregnant women and infants.
• Best practices for educating healthcare providers and pregnant individuals about syphilis.
• Integration of telehealth services for better screening and treatment options.
• Enhancing testing for syphilis during the third trimester of pregnancy and at delivery.
• Improving treatment methods for syphilis and congenital syphilis cases.

Reporting and Accountability

Two years after the bill becomes law, the Secretary of Health and Human Services is required to submit a report to Congress regarding the implementation of the guidance and practices outlined above, ensuring transparency and accountability in addressing syphilis among pregnant women and infants.

Definitions and Terms

The bill includes definitions for key terms such as:

• "State Medicaid program" refers to state plans for medical assistance.
• "State CHIP" is defined as state child health plans for providing health assistance.
• Terms related to Indian tribes and health programs are clarified as they pertain to the specific provisions of the bill.

Relevant Companies

None found