General Information

What to know

Babies undergo screening for certain genetic, endocrine, and metabolic disorders prior to discharge from a hospital or birthing center.

Decorative: Happy Kids

For partners and parents

When and how are babies screened?

Parents should take babies not born in a hospital or not screened before hospital discharge to a clinic (or back to the hospital) to be checked. Babies need to be screened within 24-48 hours after birth. A few drops of blood from the baby's heel provide the blood sample sent to a lab for screening.

How will I receive the results of the test?

Parents are notified of screening results by their doctor if there is a problem. If you have questions or concerns about the results, see your baby's doctor.

Where can I receive more information about Newborn Screening?

To learn more about newborn screening, go to About Newborn Screening.