Assembly directs Health Department to develop placenta accreta screening guidelines

The New York State Assembly on March 23 passed Assembly No. 10514A, a bill amending the public health law to require the Department of Health to develop evidence-based screening guidelines for placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

Mister Zakaro, explaining his vote, said the incidence of PAS has risen markedly and that inconsistent screening across providers and regions places women at risk. ‘‘Since 1980, the incidence of PAS has alarmingly increased from 1 in 1,250 pregnancies to 1 in 272 by 2025,’’ he said on the floor, and urged standardized screening, imaging protocols and referral pathways to qualified professionals for high-risk deliveries. He voted in the affirmative.

Miss Forrest thanked the sponsor and highlighted how routine screening and attention to prenatal symptoms can address disparities in maternal outcomes; she framed the bill as an element of black maternal-health efforts. After on-floor explanations the clerk recorded the vote and declared the bill passed by voice tally.

The bill’s passage directs the Department of Health to create consistent screening protocols so pregnant patients receive the same assessment regardless of provider or region. The bill text read on the floor specified the act’s effective date where applicable.

The clerk announced the recorded vote following the explanations and declared the measure passed. The Assembly adjourned and will reconvene for further business on Tuesday, March 24.