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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Insights
Newborn screening provides early testing for infants to improve health outcomes. Expectant parents desire information on newborn screening during prenatal care, recommending provider education.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Newborn screening programs are essential public health initiatives in the United States.
- These programs offer presymptomatic testing and crucial follow-up care for newborns.
- Early intervention in identified conditions significantly enhances neonatal and long-term health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of newborn screening programs.
- To address the desire of expectant parents for prenatal information on newborn screening.
- To recommend the integration of newborn screening education into routine prenatal care.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of survey and focus group data from expectant parents.
- Review of current state-based newborn screening requirements.
- Formulation of recommendations by the Committee on Genetics.
Main Results:
- Expectant parents express a strong preference for receiving newborn screening information during prenatal care.
- Current state requirements for newborn screening vary.
- There is a clear demand for accessible resources regarding newborn screening.
Conclusions:
- Obstetric care providers should proactively offer resources on newborn screening to patients.
- Information can be disseminated through brochures, electronic sources, or direct discussion.
- Integrating newborn screening education into prenatal visits can empower families and improve infant health outcomes.
Abstract:
Newborn screening programs are mandatory, state-based public health programs. They provide newborns in the United States with presymptomatic testing and necessary follow-up care for a variety of medical conditions for which early intervention will improve neonatal and long-term health outcomes for the individual. Although current state requirements vary, the results of surveys and focus groups of expectant parents demonstrate that women and their families would like to receive information about newborn screening during their prenatal care. The Committee on Genetics recommends that obstetric care providers make resources regarding newborn screening available to patients through informational brochures, electronic sources, or through discussion during prenatal visits.
