Newborn Screening 101: From Heel Stick to Timely Follow-up

Newborn screening plays a vital role in identifying infants who may be at risk for serious health conditions, making timely follow-up and early intervention essential. This webinar will provide an overview of the Texas Newborn Screening Program, including blood spot, hearing, and critical congenital heart disease screening, while explaining the importance of follow-up after an out-of-range result. Participants will also hear a family perspective on the emotions and questions surrounding a possible genetic diagnosis, the importance of thoughtful communication, and resources available to support Texas families.

Session Learning Objectives
• Describe the history, purpose and timing of Texas newborn screening, including the two blood-spot screens and point-of-care screening.
• Differentiate an out-of-range screening result from a confirmed diagnosis and explain the importance of prompt follow-up.
• Identify resources for effective communication, referral, and early-intervention, after an abnormal newborn screening result.
• Describe parents’ fears, concerns, and questions about the possibility of a genetic diagnosis and what it might mean for their child.
• Differentiate between the words used to describe a diagnosis or disability and explain why word choice matters.
• Identify specific resources available to families in Texas and explain how to access them.

Presenter Disclosures:
Laura Buckner is employed by the Univesity of Texas, Texas Center for Disability Studies and MOM.
Vernon Reid Sutton is employed by Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital and participates in ongoing clinical trials with Ultragenyx. This will not be referenced in this presentation.