To: Chief Nursing Officers and Government Affairs Staff
Please share this information with appropriate staff such as pediatricians, midwives, family and
primary care providers, NICU, and lab directors.
From: Zosia Stanley, JD, MHA, Associate General Counsel
ZosiaS@wsha.org or (206) 216-2511
Subject: Notice of delay in newborn screening testing and reports from state lab
Purpose
The purpose of this bulletin is to notify hospitals that the Washington State Newborn Screening Program is not currently able to complete newborn screening tests for one of the conditions required by state law. As a result, the program is not sending out printed screening reports.
Until the issue is fixed, the program is verbally contacting providers if a screening shows abnormal results. Providers who are concerned about a particular newborn can contact the program directly at (206) 418-5410.
The program has provided a memo with additional information.
Recommendation
The delay by the newborn screening program does not alter the legal requirement that all hospitals collect newborn blood samples from all newborns within 48 hours of birth, unless the parent objects. The blood samples must be submitted to the state public health laboratory within 72 hours of the collection of the sample. Hospitals and health care providers play an important role in ensuring newborns are rapidly screened for disorders and that parents are given the results as soon as possible.
Applicability/Scope
This notice applies to all hospitals and providers of birth and delivery services.
Next Steps
Please contact John Thompson at the Newborn Screening Program at (206) 418-5410 with questions.
Background and References
- State law on newborn screening RCW 70.37
- Newborn screening regulations WAC 246-650,
- Newborn Screening Program website
Zosia Stanley, JD, MHA
Associate General Counsel
Washington State Hospital Association
999 Third Avenue, Suite 1400
Seattle, WA 98104
Direct: (206) 216-2511
