Parent Education Informed parents are better prepared to follow up on presumptive positive test results and to facilitate timely evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of affected infants. Immediate action and treatment are necessary for the prevention of mental retardation, morbidity and mortality associated with the disorders identified by the newborn screening program. Prior knowledge of newborn screening by parents and discussion of test results with the infant’s health care provider further ensure that all infants receive the benefits of this most important public health program. Prior knowledge of the screening also reduces the stress that may be associated with requests for a repeat test. The necessity for a repeat test does not necessarily mean that the infant has one of the screened disorders or may become developmentally delayed. Thus, discussion of this pending public health activity by the obstetrician is strongly urged.
Other Resources: General information about newborn screening and information on specific genetic conditions.
The information contained in this section does not constitute the endorsement of any specific state policy or procedure by the March of Dimes. Content is based on the New York State Department of Health manual “Newborn Screening in New York State: A Guide for Health Professionals,” provided by the Newborn Screening Program, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health. The material has been modified for a national audience, and additional information has been added by the March of Dimes.
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