Regulations promulgated by the federal government in 1985 aimed at preventing the withholding of medically indicated treatment from a seriously ill infant (“Baby Doe”) with a life-threatening condition, except under certain specific circumstances where treatment would be futile. These regulations were ruled invalid, but the federal Child Abuse Amendments of 1984 (also passed in response to Baby Doe) made such withholding of treatment a form of child neglect, and thus provided an avenue of legal recourse for health professionals or other interested persons who believe that medical decisions concerning seriously ill newborns are not being made appropriately.
Federal, state, and hospital policies insuring that handicapped infants will receive nourishment, warmth, and life-saving treatment without regard to the quality of life.