Dried Blood Spot (DBS)

About Newborn Screening

Dried blood spot screening also known as the heel stick uses a few drops of blood from newborns to determine if they might have one of several serious conditions.  Newborn screening dates back to the 1960s, when a test we developed for phenylketonuria (PKU).  Some providers still use this term to refer to testing, however advancement in genetic testing and treatment have allowed for many other conditions to be screened for as well.

Advisory Board

The Newborn Screening and Follow-up Technical Advisory Board was established when screening was mandated in Pennsylvania.  The board provides guidance related to new conditions, testing algorithms and best practices.

Interested in nominating a condition to be added to the Pennsylvania newborn screening mandated panel?  Pennsylvania researchers, advocates, clinicians, healthcare providers and other parties may nominate a condition to be reviewed by the Pennsylvania New Conditions Nomination Committee by completing the Pennsylvania New Condition Nomination Form.

Formula Program

If newborn screening shows a baby is positive for a condition which requires special formula and the infant does not have insurance or their insurance does not cover formula a program is available with the Bureau of Family Health.

• Application for Formula Program
  
• Formulary List
  

Treatment Centers

The Department of Health works closely with several treatment centers in the state to ensure infants with a positive screening receive timely care by a healthcare provider.

Where can I get more information?

If you have questions about your baby's newborn screening result, contact your baby's health care provider or call the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Newborn Screening and Follow-Up Program at 717-783-8143.