The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has warned two Texas hospitals, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Center, against withholding medical treatment from a newborn with a severe heart defect. This warning follows a dispute involving the newborn, Gabriel, who was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. HHS stated that federal law prohibits denying medical treatment based on a person's disability. The agency is monitoring Gabriel's case and has offered technical assistance to the hospitals as they make treatment decisions. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has also intervened, emphasizing the hospitals' legal obligations to provide necessary care. Gabriel was born on August 14, 2026, and is currently in a neonatal intensive care unit where he is expected to receive surgery for his condition. The case has garnered attention from pro-life advocates who support the surrogate mother, McKenna West, for her decision to carry the pregnancy to term despite pressures to abort.
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HHS Issues Warning to Texas Hospitals Regarding Care for Newborn with Disability
HHS has issued a warning to two Texas hospitals about their obligations to provide medical care to a newborn with a severe heart defect, following a legal dispute over treatment decisions. The newborn, Gabriel, was born on August 14, 2026, and is currently receiving care in a neonatal intensive care unit. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has also emphasized the need for the hospitals to comply with federal disability laws.
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HHS warns Texas hospitals against denying life-saving care to newborn with disability
HHS Issues Warning to Texas Hospitals Regarding Care for Newborn with Disability