UMass Memorial Health Care failed to properly report several cases of substance-exposed births at its Worcester hospital within a required timeframe, according to the state auditor.
Out of the 456 substance-exposed babies born at UMass Memorial Medical Center between January 2014 and August 2016, 80 were not reported to the Department of Children and Families within the correct timeframe, and one birth was never reported, according to state Auditor Suzanne M. Bump.Â
State law requires that hospital personnel who examine, care for or treat an infant exposed to substance report the incident orally to DCF immediately after the birth. A written report has to be submitted within 48 hours, according to Bump’s office.
Babies exposed to substances are at risk of several medical conditions and developmental disabilities, as well as abuse and neglect.
The hospital said it will improve its protocols and make sure reports are filed in accordance with state law.
“The dedicated caregivers at our medical center work diligently to provide care for both mothers and babies in these challenging situations,” hospital spokesman Anthony Berry said in a statement.Â
