CHAPTER 904
An Act to direct the Commissioner of Health to examine the efficacy of certain testing.
Approved April 9, 2000
Whereas, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a developmental disorder that is difficult to diagnose; and
Whereas, the symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia are gradual, but can rapidly result in the death of a newborn child; and
Whereas, death can be prevented by replacing the substance that the children do not produce; and
Whereas, there is a simple test for this condition that could result in saving the lives of many children; and
Whereas, however, some issues relating to false positive test results among premature infants must be resolved; now, therefore,
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. § 1. Commissioner directed to examine the efficacy of certain testing.
The Commissioner of Health shall examine the issues, costs, and benefits of testing newborns for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and shall make recommendations to the 2001 General Assembly concerning the requiring of such testing of infants. In conducting this examination, the Commissioner shall consult with pediatricians and other experts and the parents of affected children.