NJHA has submitted comments to the New Jersey Department of Health expressing significant concerns over a recent Newborn Screening rule proposal that includes a dramatic fee increase for providers.

The proposed amendments to N.J.A.C. 8:45-2.1 would raise the newborn screening fee from $90 to $150 per child. The increase is estimated to cost hospitals an additional $6.5 million annually.

NJHA submitted comments prior to the comment deadline of Sept. 30 and reiterated the hospital industry’s support for these very important screenings.  However, the comment letter requests more transparency by the Department on the justification for the increase, a mandate that insurance companies cover the increased cost and consideration of allowing hospitals to use outside laboratories for testing.

“It is our mission as the safety net providers in our communities to provide these vital services to the newborns we deliver each and every day. However, NJHA strongly objects to the unfair financial burden that hospitals must bear to support the increase in funding for the program,” stated NJHA President and CEO Betsy Ryan.

NJHA will continue to monitor the proposal and inform members once the rule is officially finalized.