191.915. Breast-feeding information provided, when, by whom. - Missouri Statutes

Breast-feeding information provided, when, by whom.

191.915. 1. Every hospital, as defined in section 197.020, RSMo, andambulatory surgical center, as defined in section 197.200, RSMo, that providesobstetrical care shall:

(1) Provide new mothers, where appropriate as determined by theattending physician, with information on breast-feeding and the benefits tothe child; and

(2) Provide new mothers, where appropriate as determined by theattending physician, with information on local breast-feeding support groups;or

(3) Offer breast-feeding consultations to new mothers, where appropriateas determined by the attending physician.

2. Beginning January 1, 2000, every licensed physician who providesobstetrical or gynecological consultation shall, where appropriate asdetermined by such physician, inform patients as to the prenatal preparationfor and postnatal benefits of breast-feeding a child.

3. The department of health and senior services shall produce writteninformation on breast-feeding and the health benefits to the child, and shalldistribute such information to physicians described in subsection 2 of thissection and to hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers described insubsection 1 of this section upon request.

(L. 1999 S.B. 8 & 173 § 5)