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Tennessee

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Tennessee, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Newborn Screening

Tennessee provides comprehensive newborn screening programs to ensure early detection and intervention for various health conditions in infants. These programs include the Newborn Dried Bloodspot Screening and the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening. Learn More

Tennessee Newborn Dried Bloodspot Screening Program
The Newborn Dried Bloodspot Screening Program in Tennessee aims to protect the health of newborns by testing for over 65 serious but treatable conditions that may not be apparent at birth. A small blood sample is collected from the baby's heel between 24-36 hours after birth and analyzed to detect potential disorders affecting growth, development, or overall health. Early identification through this simple test allows for prompt medical intervention, enhancing the child's long-term health outcomes. Learn More

For more information about the Tennessee Newborn Dried Bloodspot Screening Program, please contact:
Newborn Screening Program
Tennessee Department of Health
Phone: 615-532-8462
Email: nbs.health@tn.gov or click here

Tennessee Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program
The Tennessee Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program ensures that all newborns are screened for hearing loss before hospital discharge or by one month of age. This quick and painless screening is vital for the early detection of hearing impairments, allowing for timely interventions such as hearing aids or therapy to support healthy language and communication development. The program follows the "1-3-6" plan:

1: All infants are screened for hearing loss before 1 month of age.

3: Those who do not pass the initial screening receive a diagnostic audiological evaluation before 3 months of age.

6: Infants identified with hearing loss begin appropriate early intervention services no later than 6 months of age. Learn More

Families have access to follow-up care and resources through the state's Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program.

For more information about the Tennessee Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program, please contact:
Newborn Hearing Screening Follow-Up Program
Tennessee Department of Health
Phone: 615-532-8462
Email: nbs.health@tn.gov. Learn More

These programs are integral components of Tennessee's commitment to ensuring that every newborn receives the necessary screenings for a healthy start in life.

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