What is Newborn Screening?
Newborn screening is a public health program that screens babies shortly after birth for specific medical conditions. These conditions may not be obvious at birth but can be treated if detected early.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious health problems. In many cases, early care can mean the difference between a child leading a relatively normal life or a child experiencing severe developmental delays, long-term health care needs, or death.
For
more information, please see the parent brochures below.
Newborn Screening in Kentucky
Kentucky law mandates newborn screening for every baby born in the state.
Per KRS 214.155 and 902 KAR 4 030, all infants born in Kentucky must be screened for certain conditions. A small blood sample, called a dried blood spot, is collected and sent to the Kentucky Division of Laboratory Services for testing.
This dried blood spot specimen is collected from the baby's heel 24-48 hours after birth and is used to test for more than 50 inborn errors of metabolism, endocrine disorders, hemoglobinopathies, and other genetic conditions. This program started in Kentucky in the mid-1960s for phenylketonuria (PKU) and has expanded over the years. The screened conditions may not be obvious at birth. If left undetected, some conditions can lead to slow growth, blindness, brain damage, and/or death. Finding and treating these disorders early saves lives and significantly improves the quality of life for the affected infants and their families.
Kentucky Newborn Screening Family Experience (Video)
If a screening result is outside of the normal range, the Kentucky Newborn Screening Program collaborates with the baby's health care provider to:
- Arrange repeat testing, if needed
- Confirm results
- Coordinate care with a specialist when appropriate
Laboratory and Specimen Handling Resources
The resources below provide additional information related to newborn screening laboratory testing, specimen handling, and shipping requirements.
Laboratory Reference Materials
Blood Collection and Shipping
Filter Cards and Supplies
To request filter cards:
- Contact the State Laboratory by email
- Email: lea.mott@ky.gov
- If urgent, please contact DLS directly at 502-564-4446
- Include facility name, address, phone number, and contact person
Results
Newborn screening reports are now accessible through the KYID Newborn Screen Reports Portal. For access or questions, contact (502)782-7717or (502)782-7734.See
the user guide for additional information.
Additional Resources