Missouri

In Missouri, newborn screening is a vital public health service aimed at ensuring early detection and treatment of serious health conditions that may not be visible at birth. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) oversees comprehensive newborn screening programs, including bloodspot screening and hearing screening for all newborns.

Missouri Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program
The Missouri Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program screens newborns for over 70 rare but serious conditions, including metabolic, endocrine, hemoglobin, and other genetic disorders.
A small blood sample is collected from the baby's heel between 24 and 48 hours after birth. Early diagnosis and intervention significantly reduce the risk of severe health problems, developmental delays, or even death.

For more information about Missouri's Newborn Bloodspot Screening, contact

Missouri State Public Health Laboratory
Phone: 573-751-3334
Email: NewbornScreening@health.mo.gov
Website: Missouri Newborn Screening Program

Missouri Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program
The Missouri Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program ensures that all newborns are screened for hearing loss before 1 month of age, diagnosed before 3 months, and receive intervention before 6 months if needed. Learn more
Newborn hearing screening is painless, quick, and crucial for early language and communication development.
Hospitals and birthing centers are required by law (Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 191.925) to screen newborns for hearing loss.

For more information about Missouri’s EHDI Program, contact

Phone: 800-877-6246 (Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services)
Email: NewbornHearing@health.mo.gov

These screening programs are critical to giving newborns in Missouri the healthiest possible start to life, ensuring that conditions are detected and treated as early as possible.