Thursday, February 7, 2013

Emergency medical responders are asking Kansas lawmakers to require testing for more communicable diseases and improve notification of first responders.

Current state law on accidental exposure requires first responders to be notified if they are exposed to AIDs or HIV.

In testimony Wednesday before a Kansas House committee, emergency supervisors supported a proposal to require testing and notification for about 52 communicable diseases, including hepatitis, rabies, rubella, measles and mumps.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports the measure likely will be amended to allow for testing at hospitals, clinics and other health facilities. Positive tests would be reported promptly to first responders in Kansas.

Scott Stueven, with the Butler County Emergency Medical Services., says the state's lack of a comprehensive state testing law leads to inconsistent handling of possible exposure cases.