NBS News in Kansas

Kansas currently screens for PKU, Galactosemia, Congenital Hypothyroidism, Hemoglobinopathies and hearing loss.  

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment will implement screening for the 29 core panel conditions recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) as of July 1, 2008.  An active advisory council is in place and has been giving guidance to both the follow-up and laboratory staff. 

There will continue to be no fee assessed for newborn screening and hospitals will continue to use the filter paper that is currently used to obtain blood spot samples.

Physician education has begun with mailings to over 2,000 physicians in the state.  A website is in place for families and physicians to access additional information at:  www.kdheks.gov/newborn_screening.

 Kansas Newborn Screening Unit