Why are you so disrespectful to anyone that doesnt agree with your opinion? I had no opinion about you until i found this website, but now, after i see the way you treat people.... I have a definite opinion. Cecil Townsip deserves much better than your arrogant, self- serving attitude.

The question was WHY don't hospitals do the test. The question was not about what experiences, albeit unfavorable, of other people.

Real name, or no, (irrelevant) the question remains open.

Cecil Resident/Roger - Please tell us, if you know, why this test isn't SOP at all hospitals. This Bill is about giving all newborns the best chance. Now, according the CDC, this test isn't 100% accurate, but shouldn't we attempt to ensure all newborns get the best care available? Who could be against that? I know I would want it for my future kid(s).

http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/pediatricgenetics/cchdscreening.html

Chuck, my previous post made no assertion one way or another. It merely pointed out the White response did not answer the question posed. It is a neutral comment. Why did you take it otherwise? Speaking about the experiences and request of others has nothing to do with why a hospital chooses to do the test, or does not do the test.

Since we are asking questions, tell us why government has to tell a hospital how to run their operations? Do you want fully-governed hospitals, with PA legislature making all decisions?

As somebody who wants to have the test done on your newborn, you have a choice on which hospital to use for the delivery. Do you need the government to tell you which hospital is right for you? Doctors and hospitals run tens of tests on the child and mother, many before delivery. Were all these tests implemented because the PA legislature told them they must do the test? Undoubtedly, there are tens of other tests available that could be done, some of which are done, others of which are not done. How many entries should be on that list? What defines "best care?" (your words)

If this legislation becomes law, who will enforce? Who will pay for the test? Will the test be mandatory before the infant leaves any hospital?

These are all neutral questions.

Roger, I apologize. If you didn't mean your post to be contentious, I really am sorry.

My personal opinion, and that is all this is, is If there are tests out there that could possibly save the life of even one child out of a billion, that test is worth it.

I would define "best care" as using all possible measures to ensure the newborn is healthy.

It stated in the article, that Rep White said the cost of this particular test is about $10, but is there really a price tag on healthy children? I would pay any price, beg/borrow/steal to make sure my kids are healthy and safe. I'm sure you would do the same.

Maybe you're right. Maybe this test shouldn't be mandated. My son was born almost 8 years ago at Washington Hospital. I'll have to check the paper work because I don't know if they did this test and I don't know if I was given the option to have it done. I think at the very least all hospitals, who don't do it, should ask parents if they would like it done.

You don't always have a choice on which hospital your baby is born in. For example, it usually depends on which hospital your OB has privelegdes in. Maybe that has changed but usually doctors can't walk into any hospital and perform a procedure.

I really am not trying to cause any arguments. I just don't understand why there would even be a discussion about if we should do something that could save lives of children.

It was a simple question, and yes you did answer. You created a bill based upon feeling--- right feelings on behalf of the parents ---but you did not go to a local hospital and ask if they do the test. If they don't do the test why not.

Sorry, Amanda... But i think his response is arguementative, as always... I expect better behavior from an elected official and public servant. He is disrespectful to any constituent that doesnt agree with him, regardless of the fact that we pay his salary.

Neither one of you seem to realize that a lively debate should be about attacking the issue - not the individual. It is suppose to be about presenting facts to justify your position - not insults. Amanda wouldn't have to cool things off if you were interested in a lively debate instead of attacking anyone with an opinion other than yours. This "Anonymous internet troll" is one of his constituents that he is supposed to be representing - not disregarding.

Cecil Resident, look at Mana's postings. He/she has been consistently critical of EVERYTHING White does, like more than a few other people on this site- none of whom are willing to step up and use their real names. That level of vitriol, combined with the anonymity of the commenters rises to the definition of 'internet troll'. So spare us all the crocodile tears and false outrage unless you're willing to sign your real name.