Overview
On July 1, 2008, Arkansas increased the number of conditions screened for in newborns from six to 28. The conditions now screened for are recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics and endorsed by the March of Dimes and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The revisions to the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Testing of Newborn Infants were adopted on November 1, 2007, with an effective date of July 1, 2008.
Newborn screening sampling:
Blood specimens should be collected before newborns go home from the hospital. If the baby is not born in the hospital, a blood sample should be obtained by the baby’s doctor or the local health unit by the seventh day of life.
Newborn Screening Recommended Follow Up:
If an abnormal result is obtained, the Newborn Screening Nurses (NBSN) will contact the baby’s doctor. The lab results will be faxed to the office of the doctor of record by the NBSN. Information on needed follow-up testing will also be provided in that fax by the Newborn Screening Medical Director in consultation with UAMS specialists.
Arkansas Genetic Health Committee Meeting Minutes
Rules and Regulations