Newborn Screening and Follow-Up

Mission

To screen all newborns in Rhode Island for metabolic, endocrine, hemoglobin, hearing, developmental, and other conditions to identify and treat these conditions as early as possible, prevent death and disability, and enable children to reach their full potential.

2012 Accomplishments and Milestones

• The Rhode Island Department of Health Newborn Screening Program was awarded funds to implement a demonstration program to assess the feasibility of pulse oximetry screening on newborns prior to hospital discharge to detect Critical Congenital Heart defects.
• Achieved 100% screening rates for all newborns in Rhode Island.

Programs Within

Newborn Bloodspot Screening

To screen all newborns in Rhode Island for metabolic, endocrine, hemoglobin, and other health conditions to identify risks at the earliest possible point. (more)

Rhode Island Hearing Assessment Program

To ensure that all newborns in Rhode Island receive timely and appropriate screening, diagnosis, and intervention for hearing loss. (more)

Key Focus Areas

Newborn Developmental Screening

To screen all newborns in Rhode Island before hospital discharge to identify newborns and families who may benefit from community resources and support. Following the screening, families may receive free home visits and be linked with follow-up testing, care, and support services.

Maternal and Child Home Visiting

To improve the well-being of families through home-based outreach. (more)