Fetal death certificates are required when the fetus is greater than what weight or gestational age?

Fetal death certificates are mandated for fetuses that exceed certain criteria of weight or gestational age to ensure proper documentation and understanding of perinatal loss. In Texas, the requirement is specifically for a fetus weighing more than 350 grams or gestational age of 20 weeks.

Both of these criteria fulfill the necessary conditions set forth by health regulations for accurately tracking and reporting the incidence of fetal death. By establishing a minimum weight and gestational period, the law acknowledges significant fetal development, making the issuance of a death certificate both a legal requirement and a means of providing closure to families.

The values provided in the other options do not align with the state's regulations. For instance, weights lower than 350 grams or gestational ages less than 20 weeks may not reflect the same degree of development or potential for a live birth, hence do not warrant a fetal death certificate under Texas law. This ensures that resources are focused on cases that are more significant in terms of medical and legal considerations.