U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) recently announced bipartisan legislation that would improve medical care for babies born with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) from exposure to opioids while in the womb.
The Cradle Act, S. 2542, co-authored by Capito and U.S. Sen. Angus King (I-ME), would direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to draft new guidelines for residential pediatric recovery centers that treat babies suffering from NAS. Such programs currently exist in hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers.
“The increasing number of babies with neonatal abstinence syndrome are the smallest and most vulnerable victims of the drug epidemic,” Capito said. “Helping those born addicted through no fault of their own is a critical part of my efforts to help families across America. By improving access to specialized care and creating a supportive environment for treatment, the Cradle Act can make a difference in the lives of babies and mothers battling addiction.”
The number of babies born with NAS is now five times greater than it was from 2000-2012, resulting in more need for specialized care, longer hospital stays and increased medical costs.
“When a baby is born with neonatal abstinence syndrome, the focus should be on ensuring that the child receives the highest-quality, most effective care available,” King said. “But, too often, federal regulations stand in the way of cutting edge treatment. By allowing CMS to cover a wider variety of care, our legislation will help ensure that babies experiencing withdrawals will have access to a greater range of treatment options that will more effectively put them on track to a happier, healthier life.”