Ongoing disputes surface over birth certificates at Jefferson Davis Hospital births
### Amending Erroneous Birth Certificates for Jefferson Davis Hospital Births: A Guide for Texas Residents
Individuals born at the closed Jefferson Davis Hospital in Houston have faced challenges in correcting errors on their birth certificates, but a well-defined process exists through the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), as detailed below.
#### The Correction Process
1. **Complete Form VS-170**: Obtain the official Application to Amend Certificate of Birth (Form VS-170) from the DSHS and fill it out to correct errors such as spelling mistakes, incorrect dates, or missing information (except for a father’s name, which requires contacting Vital Statistics directly).
2. **Gather Supporting Documentation**: Accompany the application with documents that validate the requested changes. Examples include school records, hospital records (if available), baptismal certificates, insurance policy applications, passports, or any official records that show the correct information.
3. **Detailed Explanation**: Clearly list each item that needs correction, what is currently on the certificate, and what the correct information should be on the form. Affidavits from relatives or other witnesses who can attest to the correct information may also be included.
4. **Submit the Application**: Send the completed form and supporting documents to the Vital Statistics Unit, Department of State Health Services, P.O. Box 12040, Austin, TX 78711-2040.
5. **Follow Up**: Processing may take time, especially given the age of the records and the hospital's closure. Contact the customer service line (1-888-963-7111) or the Houston Health Department to request assistance and expedited handling when possible.
#### Additional Considerations
- **Court Orders**: For complex cases or if the state process is unresponsive, individuals may apply for a court order through Harris County Court to officially amend their birth certificate. - **Documentation Flexibility**: Even if hospital records are unavailable, other official documents that corroborate your identity and correct information can be accepted.
#### Key Points
- **The process is centralized at the state level, not locally**. - **Lack of original hospital records complicates but does not prevent correction**. - **Persistence and thorough documentation increase the likelihood of success**. - **Court intervention remains an option if administrative remedies fail**.
For the most current forms and detailed instructions, consult the Texas DSHS website or contact their Vital Statistics Unit directly. Numerous individuals, such as Jessica Richards, Sandra Wardlow, and Rosa Montelongo, have faced similar difficulties in amending their birth certificates due to errors made at Jefferson Davis Hospital. The Houston Health Department is committed to helping individuals navigate the amendment process for incorrect birth certificates.
- The health of individuals born at Jefferson Davis Hospital in Texas might be affected if errors on their birth certificates are not corrected.
- Businesses in Texas should consider workplace wellness programs to address chronic diseases and improve employee health.
- A rise in crime and accidents may negatively impact general news and the justice system, employers should promote safety in the workplace.
- Mental health is essential for overall health, and therapies and treatments can help manage conditions such as anxiety and depression.
- Men's health encompasses various aspects, including skin care, eye health, and sexual health, which require regular check-ups and preventive measures.
- Women's health includes reproductive health, parenting, and skin conditions, and it is crucial to seek proper medical care to manage health-related issues.
- Medical conditions such as chronic diseases, respiratory conditions, and certain skin conditions can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
- The census data in Texas might lack accurate information due to errors in birth certificates, affecting the state's overall health and wellness statistics.
- The closure of Jefferson Davis Hospital has led to an increase in demand for mental health services in the Houston community, highlighting the need for accessible and affordable options.
- The Houston Health Department has launched initiatives to educate residents about eye health and provide resources for early detection and treatment of eye diseases.
- Crime and justice issues in Texas, such as identity theft, can potentially stem from incorrect birth certificates, making it crucial for residents to address and resolve any errors.
