HCS/SB 689 - This act pertains to the assessment and the prevention of disease. The act requires the Department of Health (Department) to ensure that first responders, peace officers, and "good samaritans" who attend a patient are notified if it is believed that they were exposed to a communicable disease.

The act also allows the Department of Health in association with local health agencies to assess the potential for transmission of foodborne disease (hepatitis B) from contaminated food originating from retail food establishments. If the Department determines that action is needed, public announcements will be made and clinics opened to administer dosages against the spread of disease. The establishment responsible for the outbreak shall reimburse the Department for the costs of the clinic and of the immune globulin dosages. Reimbursements will not exceed one-half of the total cost of the clinic or a maximum of $1000. In addition, the act also adds language that authorizes the Department to address the assessment and prevention of the hepatitis C virus through educational programs, outreach services, and tracking services.

This act also requires the person who delivers a baby born to an infected mother to administer the appropriate vaccine to the infant. The act also ensures that no individual be denied needed blood testing because of an inability to pay.
JOHN MESSMER