September 2025
Newborn Screening: What It Is & Why It Matters
Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting time filled with love, questions, and many firsts. One of those firsts—usually within the first couple of days of life—is newborn screening.
While it may feel like just another test, these quick screenings play a vital role in giving your baby the healthiest possible start. At Altitude Pediatrics, we’re here to walk you through what newborn screening is, why it matters, and what you can expect as a parent.
What Is Newborn Screening?
Newborn screening is a series of simple tests performed within the first 24–48 hours after birth to check for certain health conditions that may not be visible at birth. The goal is early detection—catching potential issues before symptoms appear so your baby can receive timely care if needed.
These screenings are:
Safe and quick
Completed for nearly all newborns
Designed to provide peace of mind for families
It’s important to remember: screening is not a diagnosis. Instead, it’s the first step in identifying whether additional testing is needed.
Why Newborn Screening Is So Important
Newborn screening identifies conditions that can affect a child’s long-term health or survival. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment can prevent disability or even save a life—helping children reach their full potential. Because symptoms often don’t appear right away, early detection truly makes a difference.
What Tests Are Included?
Heel-Prick Blood Spot Test
When: The first test usually takes place around 24 hours of life, and a second is performed at the 2-week well visit with your pediatrician.
How: A healthcare professional collects a few drops of blood from your baby’s heel, which are then sent to a state laboratory for testing.
Results: Most infants will have normal results. In Illinois, the test screens for 31 conditions. If a result comes back positive, your pediatrician will discuss the findings and next steps with you.
How Altitude Pediatrics Supports Your Family
From day one, our team is here to guide you on best practices for your child’s health. That begins with recommended newborn screening, but it doesn’t stop there. As your baby grows, we continue to provide guidance on development, growth, vaccines, and preventive care—supporting your family at every stage.
What Parents Can Do Now
Although most of the newborn screening process happens automatically, you can take a few simple steps to make things smoother:
Confirm your pediatrician’s information. Ensure the hospital has Altitude Pediatrics listed so results come directly to us.
Keep your contact details updated. Double-check your phone number and address in case we need to reach you.
Schedule your baby’s first well visit. This is the perfect time to review results, ask questions, and discuss next steps.
Write down your questions. The newborn period is busy—notes ensure you get the answers you need.
Most importantly, remember: you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our pediatric team is here to explain results, guide you through follow-up if needed, and support your family every step of the way.
Newborn screening tests are one of the very first ways we can protect your baby’s health and future. By finding certain conditions early, these screenings can make a life-changing difference for children and families.
At Altitude Pediatrics, we partner with parents at every step—explaining results, answering questions, and ensuring you feel supported as you begin this new chapter. If you have concerns about newborn screenings or your baby’s results, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your little one thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is newborn screening required?
Yes. Newborn screening is required because it helps detect conditions that could affect your child’s long-term health.Does it hurt my baby?
The test is a quick heel prick, often combined with any other needed blood work.Can I refuse?
Yes, parents can refuse testing, but our providers are here to share why it’s strongly recommended and how it impacts your baby’s health.How long do results take?
Results are typically available in 1–2 weeks. If anything comes back positive, the state lab will contact your provider right away.What if I’m not delivering at a hospital?
Infants born at home or in a birthing center should still be screened. Talk with your midwife or your baby’s provider to prepare.Will insurance cover newborn screening?
Yes. Recommended newborn screening is covered by insurance.What if we’re moving to another state soon?
The test is performed in the state where your baby is born. Results are sent to the hospital and can be accessed by your pediatrician wherever you move.