The purpose of the Newborn Screening Program is to test all newborns in Virginia for early signs of a number of treatable conditions as required by Virginia law. All of the tests are performed on one tiny sample of blood obtained by pricking the baby’s heel a few days after birth. The blood is allowed to dry on absorbent paper, which is sent for testing to a laboratory.
The Virginia Newborn Screening Program consultants assist attending Virginia doctors in confirming a newborn’s diagnosis, recommending treatment and advising follow-up care.