What is Newborn Screening?

Newborn screening includes tests, mostly genetic, to detect rare but treatable conditions that might not show symptoms at birth. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious health problems or even death, allowing babies to live as healthy and normal a life as possible.

Is Newborn Screening New?
No. Newborn screening has been required since 1965, and all U.S. states have a screening program. Early testing is crucial because some conditions can cause serious problems within the first few days of life.

How Many Conditions Does the Test Screen For?
Newborns are tested for 50 conditions in New York. Though rare, these conditions can cause serious issues like developmental delays, infections, or even death if untreated.

Why Test if My Baby Seems Healthy?
Many conditions don’t show symptoms immediately. Newborn screening helps identify these hidden conditions early, so treatment can begin before symptoms appear. Many of these conditions are inherited from parents.

My Family Has Never Had These Problems. Why Test?
Even with a healthy family history, your baby could still have a condition. Many diseases are rare, but screening detects them early. Also, some parents or babies may be carriers of genetic conditions without knowing it.

How Is the Test Done?
A small blood sample is taken from your baby’s heel (usually when they are 1–2 days old) and sent to a state lab for testing.

Will I Get the Results?
Yes. Your baby’s doctor will receive the results and contact you if something is concerning. Ask your doctor for the results at your baby’s first check-up. You’ll also receive a pink form with information on how to access the results.

If the Test Is Negative, Does It Mean My Baby Is Healthy?
A negative result means your baby doesn’t have the conditions screened for, but it doesn’t rule out all health problems. Watch for unusual symptoms and follow up with your doctor as needed.

What If My Baby Needs a Repeat Test?
A repeat test doesn’t mean your baby has a condition. It’s often needed if the first sample wasn’t ideal. It’s important to return for retesting quickly so treatment can begin if necessary.

What If My Baby Has One of These Conditions?
Most conditions found through newborn screening are treatable with early intervention, such as special diets or medications, to help your baby grow and develop normally.

Will My Future Children Have the Same Condition?
It depends on the condition. Many of these diseases are inherited, so future children could be at risk. However, newborn screening only checks for specific diseases and doesn’t detect all genetic carriers. Genetic counseling can help you understand the risks.

Why Is My Baby Tested for HIV?
HIV testing checks for the virus that can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. If the mother is HIV-positive, steps can be taken to protect the baby.

How Much Do These Tests Cost?
The tests are free of charge to families.

How Can I Help My Baby’s Doctor?
Make sure the hospital has your baby’s doctor’s contact information so they can receive the results. If a repeat test is needed, bring your baby in as soon as possible. Keep your contact details up to date so your doctor can reach you for follow-up care. Early action is key to your baby’s health.