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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
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Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy on a Semiconductor Based Next-Generation Sequencing Platform
Published on: August 17, 2022
Emergency preparedness for newborn screening and genetic services
Kenneth A Pass1, Jess Thoene, Michael S Watson
1New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York 12201, USA. kap03@health.state.ny.us
Summary
Newborn screening programs face challenges during disasters, impacting patient care. Developing emergency preparedness plans is crucial for continuity of diagnosis and treatment for vulnerable infants.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Public Health
- Disaster Medicine
Background:
- Newborn screening programs are vital for early diagnosis and management of infants.
- Recent disasters have disrupted the continuity of care for these vulnerable patients.
- This disruption affects laboratories, diagnostic providers, and patients requiring ongoing interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the challenges faced by newborn screening programs during emergencies.
- To develop contingency plans for maintaining essential services during disasters.
- To explore the broader applications of genetics, including mass casualty identification.
Main Methods:
- Convened a 2007 meeting sponsored by the National Coordinating Center (NCC) for Regional Genetics and Newborn Screening Collaboratives (RCs).
- Included diverse stakeholders: RCs, state programs, diagnostic providers, manufacturers, and disaster response agencies.
- Focused on identifying issues and developing preparedness strategies for newborn screening.
Main Results:
- Identified a wide range of vulnerabilities in newborn screening programs during disasters.
- Highlighted the need for robust emergency preparedness plans.
- Considered the use of genetic technologies for mass casualty identification.
Conclusions:
- Emergency preparedness is essential for newborn screening programs to ensure patient safety and continuity of care.
- Collaboration among stakeholders is key to developing effective disaster response strategies.
- Genetics plays a role not only in newborn screening but also in disaster victim identification.
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