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Newborn Screening

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NBS filter paper lot W071 expires 9/30/2010
Newborn Screening forms PH 1582 (yellow in color, lot W071) with Revision date of 08/07 are soon to expire. These forms should not be used for collection of newborn screening specimens after September 30, 2010.

About Newborn Screening

Tennessee has a comprehensive genetics program that provides access to genetic screening, diagnostic testing, and counseling services for individuals and families who have, or are at risk for, genetic disorders. Two major aspects of the genetics program are newborn screening for genetic/metabolic disorders and newborn hearing screening for early detection of hearing loss. These comprehensive screening programs provide a public health service for the citizens of Tennessee.

Newborn SleepingGenetic/Metabolic Disorders

Newborn screening allows for early diagnosis of metabolic disorders, followed by appropriate medical treatment. All babies born in Tennessee are screened for certain genetic conditions. If any of the tests are abnormal showing a possible disorder, the Department of

Health follows up with the baby’s doctor to initiate retesting, confirmation and treatment from a specialist if necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment can make the difference between a child leading a relatively normal life or having more significant developmental delays, long-term health care needs, or even death.

Child with Hearing Aid Hearing Screening

Newborn hearing screening allows for early diagnosis of hearing loss and appropriate follow up services. Early detection gives parents the most effective opportunity to take action to help prevent the complications of inability to communicate, trouble reading, difficulty learning, and isolation.

Computer EquipmentNewborn Screening tests started:
1968 PKU (Phenylketonuria)
1980 Congenital Hypothyroidism
1988 Sickle Cell and other Hemoglobinopathies
1992 Galactosemia
2000 Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
2001 Newborn Hearing Screening
2003 Biotinidase Deficiency
2004 Expanded Screening utilizing Tandem         
Spectrometry for multiple analytes
2008 Cystic Fibrosis

Newsletters

Newsletters

Pamphlets

Pamphlets

The following pamphlets have been developed by the Tennessee Department of Health to describe newborn screening. Commonly asked questions are answered, additional resources are provided and a list of the Tennessee genetics network, with phone numbers, can be found in these pamphlets. The Tennessee Department of Health requests that all obstetricians provide and review these pamphlets with their pregnant patients.  All birthing hospitals must distribute them to families with a newborn.  Copies of these pamphlets can be obtained from a birthing hospital, the local health department or faxing in a request form.

Newborn Screening Pamphlet Request Form
Hearing Screening Pamphlet Request Form

Provider Pamphlets

Metabolic/Genetic Newborn Screening Program In Tennessee: Guide for Practitioners
Talking With Parents About Hearing Loss…

Parent Pamphlets

English Versions

Versiónes de Español

Hearing Posters

English Versions
No child should miss out on life because of hearing loss
No child is too young to test

Versiónes de Español
Ningún niño debería de privarse de nada en la vida por tener pérdida de audición
Ningún niño es demasiado pequeño para ser evaluado