Newborn Health Screening

Your baby is tested for certain medical conditions when she is born. Many conditions can be treated if they are found early enough. Early treatment means your baby can grow up healthier.

Newborn tests are given in the hospital right after birth. The tests are given again at your baby's first checkup.


The second series of tests is important. It must be done one or two weeks after the first tests. Be sure to take your baby to the doctor or clinic for this second series of tests. At this visit, your doctor will also check other things to make sure your baby is doing fine.

A small amount of your baby’s blood will be taken. It will be tested and you will be told if there is any cause for concern.

Your doctor or nurse can answer questions about the tests.

If you don’t have health insurance for your baby, you can learn about resources in your state by contacting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Insure Kids Now Program.

To learn more, call 1-877-KIDSNOW or visit their Web site at www.insurekidsnow.gov/.