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Nebraska NBS News
Nebraska currently screens for all 29 conditions recommended in the core panel. This is accomplished through mandate of 8* conditions, plus optional testing for the additional conditions identifiable via MS/MS. Under this structure, all newborns receive the 8, and greater than 97% of newborns receive the optional test results. As of July 1, 2008 the optional tests will become mandatory. Nebraska currently contracts for newborn screening laboratory testing services including overnight shipping, and 24/7 access to the electronic database and initial phone and fax reporting of out-of-range results, unsatisfactory, drawn early and post transfusion specimens with PerkinElmer Genetics in Pittsburgh. Features that contribute to the success of the program include a monthly electronic match with birth records to ensure every newborn gets screened, active short term follow-up on all results noted above, an active quality assurance program, and publication of an annual report. A Newborn Screening Advisory Committee including parents, laboratorians, neonatologists, pediatric and pediatric sub-specialists, and dietitians actively meets every quarter, and has provided technical and policy guidance to the program since the early 1990's. Nebraska's Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program has exceeded national averages for the last few years thanks to an active short term follow-up program linking early detection and intervention with the medical home. In addition use of an internet based data system linked to the vital records database helps ensure parents of unscreened newborns receive education about the benefits of newborn hearing screening. In 2006 greater than 80% of Nebraska newborns needing hearing screening follow-up were achieving the 1-3-6 month guidelines established by the JCIH. Nebraska's Annual Report also features Nebraska EHDI data and helps educate policy makers and other stakeholders. The EHDI Advisory Committee includes parents of children with hearing loss, audiologists, neonatologists and other stakeholders interested in promoting EHDI, and provides technical and policy guidance as well. 
Nebraska Newborn Screening Group
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