Important Information For Parents About the Newborn Screening Test
A Test Your New Baby Must Have
Soon after birth, your baby will have a blood test.
In California, the law requires that your baby have this Newborn Screening Test for:
PKU
Galactosemia
Hypothyroidism
Sickle Cell Disease and other Hemoglobin Diseases
Your baby will also need regular well-baby care to check for other health problems.
Make Sure Your Baby is Tested
Babies can look very healthy at birth and still have one of these disorders. That is why your baby will be tested before leaving the hospital. Ask your doctor or mid-wife to make sure the test is done.
Babies not born in the hospital must also have this test. If should be done before the baby is six days old. Call your doctor or health department to have your baby tested.
The Test is Safe
A few drops of blood will be taken from your baby's heel. This is a simple and safe test. The blood will be sent to a State approved lab for testing.
How Much Does The Test Cost?
The fees are subject to change. Please check with your doctor or hospital for the current cost of the test. Medi-Cal, health plans and most private insurance will pay for the test.
How Can I Get The Results?
You can get the test results from your baby's doctor or clinic. It takes about two weeks. If your baby needs more tests you will get a letter or phone call.
If you move after the test is done, make sure your baby's doctor or the clinic staff has your new address and phone number.
Can I Say No To The Test?
You can only say no for religious reasons. If you say "no" you must sign a special form that says your hospital, doctor and the clinic staff are not responsible if your baby develops problems from these disorders.
Early Treatment Can Prevent Serious Problems
These disorders can cause serious health problems. But early treatment can help your baby. Free diagnosis for positive tests is available at a California Children's Services-approved hospital in your area.
PKU (Phenylketonuria)
Babies born with PKU have problems when they eat foods high in protein like milk, including breast mild and formula, meat, eggs and cheese. Without treatment, these babies become mentally retarded.
Galactosemia
Babies with this disorder cannot use some of the sugars in milk, formula, and breast milk and other foods. This disorder harms the baby's eyes, liver and brain. A special diet can prevent these problems.
Hypothyroidism
Babies born with this problem lack a thyroid hormone. Without this hormone they grow very slowly and become mentally retarded. This can be prevented by giving the baby special medicine every day.
Sickle Cell Disease and other Hemoglobin Diseases
These diseases affect the baby's red blood cells. These babies can get very sick and even die from common infections. Most infections can be prevented with antibiotics. Affected babies also need lifelong care for problems caused by these diseases.
Credits: Carol Gindi
