"Collection of genetic material"

We recently welcomed a newborn into our lives and had a visit from a midwife on day three at our home. Due to social distancing laws and policies introduced by Eastern Health, only one parent is allowed in the front room of the house for the duration of the consultation, with the other parent told to leave the room.

In my opinion, the problem with this is that it excludes one parent from any consultation in relation to decisions and involvement. This would not normally be a problem, as we have complete trust in each other to make decisions when required, however in this situation, there was genetic material taken from the newborn.   

The parent present, I believe, was not fully made aware of where this genetic material would be taken, or told of the implications of the test. It was presented as a normal procedure and was told to sign a document of consent, whilst I felt they were under a lot of stress and pre-occupation caused by baby. They were not told, nor given the recommendation to consult their spouse in making a legal declaration.

We both feel that this was simply pressed upon by the midwife, with no regard to the legal process or various options associated with such legal declaration. We both do fully understand the test, it's benefits and the legalities pertaining to consent, and the removal of genetic material.

We feel that there definitely needs to be something done to change this process to be inclusive of both parents and allow them to express their rights both legally and otherwise during home visits.