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All documents are PDF files unless otherwise noted.
Notice regarding the impacts of COVID-19 response to the DSHS Austin Laboratory
Due to ongoing DSHS Laboratory COVID-19 response efforts, the following microbiological testing areas may experience delays in laboratory results reporting, effective April 1, 2020:
Fungal isolate identification*
Parasitology identification*
Influenza surveillance testing
Mosquito surveillance testing
Gonorrhea/Chlamydia/Hepatitis C specimen testing
*Specimens for Candida auris testing and for malaria testing will not be affected and will follow regular testing schedules.
In addition, testing for foodborne outbreak investigations, including whole genome sequencing, for Listeria will continue but testing for Salmonella, Escherichia coli and other foodborne bacteria will be upon epidemiologist request only.
An updated notification will be issued when routine laboratory testing resumes.
For additional information and ongoing updates regarding the COVID-19 situation, please go to:
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/
Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov
DSHS COVID‑19 Call Center: 1-877-570-9779
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday
Posted April 2, 2020
COVID-19 and Newborn Screening
During this time of extraordinary challenge, the DSHS
Newborn Screening (NBS) Program appreciates the dedication and commitment of healthcare
providers to ensure the best possible outcomes for Texas newborns.
Q: Has DSHS altered guidance for collection of newborn
screens?
A: No. The 1st newborn screen
should be collected between 24 - 48 hours of age, or before hospital discharge.
The 2nd newborn screen should be collected on every infant at 1-2 weeks of age.
DSHS recognizes that healthcare providers may require
adjustments to newborn screening protocols.
Completely and accurately fill out all information requested
on the collection kits.
Incomplete or inaccurate demographic information can
result in specimen rejection, incorrect results, or delay in initiation of
follow-up on out of range results.
Ensure parent contact information (phone number
and address) is current.
Advise parent to select a pediatrician and
attempt to make the first appointment prior to leaving the hospital. Enter
pediatrician contact information on the collection kit.
Q: What if a parent is requesting early discharge to
socially isolate themselves and their newborn?
A: Collect the first screen
immediately prior to discharge.
Q: For 2nd screens, what if our facility is
unable to provide a location to collect the specimen?
A: If necessary, explore the
availability of other collection locations such as an outpatient clinic or reference
laboratory. If no alternative can be
identified, ensure a screen is collected as soon as can be safely scheduled.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends
pediatricians continue to see newborns and infants for preventive care. AAP
CoVID-19 guidance includes:
- Delaying care for newborns
and other vulnerable children during this time could have devastating
consequences for their health.
- Be flexible to determine the
best way to schedule patient visits to minimize the risk, including spacing out
visits, modifying clinical space, or rescheduling visits for older children
until a later date.
- Pediatricians may choose to
limit well visits to early morning while reserving the remainder of the day for
sick visits.
- Pediatricians are encouraged
to dedicate specific rooms for sick visits and well visits; or for those with
multiple practice sites to consider using one office location to see all well
visits (staffed by those in higher risk categories).
Q: What if a 2nd screen cannot be collected
in the recommended timeframe of 7-14 days of age?
A: Collect the 2nd screen as
soon as conditions allow. This ensures the earliest possible interventions for
affected babies. DSHS does not reject
specimens collected on older children, but NBS testing methodologies have been
designed to minimize the number of false negative and false positive results in
newborns and young infants.
Q: What if the 1st screen was out of range or
unsatisfactory?
It is imperative to
ensure that another screen is collected for newborns with an out of range or unsatisfactory
1st screen. Having an unsatisfactory screen is like not being
screened at all. In some situations, newborns with out of range first screens may not require
diagnostic evaluation if a second screen is normal.
Q: What if the parent refuses the 2nd screen?
A:
Parents can only refuse to have their child screened if the screening conflicts
with a parent’s religious tenets or practices (see Texas Health & Safety
Code Sec. 33.012). To refuse, a parent must sign a form stating he/she has a
religious objection to newborn screening. Points to consider before refusing a
second newborn screening:
- DSHS has implemented a
two-screen system to maximize the effectiveness of testing for all disorders on
the Texas Newborn Screening Panel.
- The second screen routinely
detects babies at risk for severe medical complications. These babies sometimes
have a normal first screen.
- Some disorders (like cystic
fibrosis) rely upon both newborn screens to reduce the number of babies who
would otherwise require additional testing with a specialist to determine
whether they have the condition or not.
Q: Our facility has new staff assisting with specimen
collection and out of range result follow-up coordination. What resources are
available for quality assurance?
A: Healthcare provider
guidance on specimen collection, transport and result reporting can be found at:
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/lab/nbsHCRes.shtm
Please completely and accurately fill out all information requested
on the collection kits. Incomplete or inaccurate demographic information can result in specimen rejection,
incorrect results, or delay in initiation of follow-up on out of range results.
Questions?
Corona
Virus in Texas:
Newborn Screening Laboratory:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or 512-776-7333
Clinical Care Coordination:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 3957 or 512-776-3957
Newborn@dshs.texas.gov
Posted March 27, 2020
Notice regarding testing and submission of specimens for COVID-19 testing to the DSHS Austin Laboratory
As of March 20, 2020, the Texas DSHS Laboratory has made the following changes to the COVID-19 Specimen Collection and Submission Instructions located on the DSHS Laboratory website.
1.This document applies only to the DSHS Austin Laboratory. For information regarding submission to other Public Health Laboratories in Texas, contact your local health department.
2. We recommend sending only a single Nasopharyngeal swab in VTM. Please see additional language under the section, “Specimen Types”.
3. A sample G-2V submission has been added to clarify instructions to fill out the form. Sample G-2V.pdf
ALL specimens for COVID-19 testing require preapproval. Contact your Local Health Department or DSHS Public Health Region (https://www.dshs.texas.gov/regions/2019-nCoV-Local-Health-Entities/) to ensure patient meets Patient Under Investigation (PUI) criteria for testing and to obtain DSHS approval to test. Specimens MUST meet DSHS PUI criteria and have a state specific PUI identification number for testing prior to shipping and WILL NOT be tested without prior approval. Please DO NOT ship specimens prior to receiving this approval.
For additional information and ongoing updates regarding the COVID-19 situation, please go to:
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/
Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov
DSHS COVID‑19 Call Center: 2-1-1 Option 6
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Monday – Friday
Posted March 20, 2020
Notice regarding testing and submission of specimens for COVID-19 testing
As of March 5, 2020, the Texas DSHS Laboratory is accepting specimens per the criteria outlined in the COVID-19 Specimen Collection and Submission Instructions document found at COVID-19 Specimen Collection and Submission Instructions
ALL specimens for 2019 nCoV testing require preapproval. Contact your Local Health Department or DSHS Public Health Region (https://www.dshs.texas.gov/regions/2019-nCoV-Local-Health-Entities/) to ensure patient meets Person Under Investigation (PUI) criteria for testing and to obtain DSHS approval to test. Specimens MUST meet PUI criteria and have a state specific PUI identification number for testing prior to shipping and WILL NOT be tested without prior approval. Please DO NOT ship specimens prior to receiving this approval.
For additional information and ongoing updates regarding the COVID-19 situation, please go to:
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/
Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov
DSHS COVID‑19 Call Center: 1-877-570-9779 Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday
Posted March 5, 2020
Update - Newborn Screening for Hemoglobinopathies
Reporting of Hemoglobin D, one of the hemoglobins detected in the newborn screen for Hemoglobinopathies, was discontinued on 10/28/2019 due to unavailability of needed control material. That material is now available. Therefore, effective as of 02/03/2020, specimens showing possible Hemoglobin D during testing, will be reported as “Hemoglobin D”.
Posted February 06, 2020
Notice – Change to Newborn Screening
Hemoglobinopathy Test
Due to issues with obtaining quality control
material from our manufacturer, effective 02/03/2020, “Hemoglobin G” will no
longer be reported. Specimens showing possible Hemoglobin G during testing will
be reported as “Other” hemoglobin variant. If the manufacturer is able to
provide quality control material in the future, we will return to being able to
report out the Hemoglobin G result.
Posted January 28, 2020
2020 IS HERE!
Wrong dates will delay Newborn
Screening (NBS) specimen testing or cause specimen REJECTION.
How to help avoid NBS testing delays and specimen rejection:
- Ensure dates (including year) are complete and accurate.
- Assign staff to double check that all specimen information is:
- Respond to DSHS staff requests for clarifying
information.
Example of correct date and time format:
Questions?
Call:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or locally 512-776-7333
Email:
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.state.tx.us
Posted January 07, 2020
Newborn Screening Fee Increase Information
and January 2020 Order Form
Q: When does the increase start?
A: The fee increases on January
1, 2020.
Q: What is the new cost of insurance/self-pay kit?
A: The new
cost for each insurance/self-pay test kit is $60.58.
Q: Why is the fee increasing?
A: The Texas
Newborn Screening (NBS) Panel has expanded to include X-linked
Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). The increase will cover the additional costs for
laboratory and follow-up services.
Q: What order form should be used to order NBS kits?
A: Use the January 2020 order form that has the new price of $60.58
listed. (G6D)
Q: Can an order request be filled using the old order
form?
A: No, only order
requests submitted on the January 2020 order form will be processed.
Questions?
NBS
Testing:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or 512-776-7333
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Order Request Information:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7661 or
512-776-7661
ContainerPrepGroup@dshs.texas.gov
Posted January 02, 2020
2020 is Approaching Fast!
Wrong dates will delay Newborn
Screening specimen testing or cause specimen REJECTION.
Avoid Delays and Specimen Rejection.
When entering newborn screening demographic information:
- Ensure dates (including year) are complete and accurate.
- Assign staff to double check that all specimen
information is:
- Respond to DSHS staff requests for clarifying
information.
For questions
or comments:
Call:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or locally 512-776-7333
Email:
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.state.tx.us
Posted December 17, 2019
Newborn Screening Insurance/Self-pay Kit Fee
Increase
Q. When does the increase start?
A. January 1, 2020.
Q: What is the new
cost of insurance/self-pay kit?
A:
The new cost for each insurance/self-pay test kit is $60.58.
Q: Why is the fee increasing?
A:
The Texas Newborn Screening Panel has expanded to include X-linked
Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). The increase will cover the additional costs for
laboratory and follow-up services.
Q: Who pays for the
insurance/self-pay kits?
A: DSHS will bill the healthcare
provider that orders insurance/self-pay test kits.
- Tips for choosing and using the correct kit:
- Use the
Insurance/Self-Pay Kit (form #NBS4) for newborns covered under a private
insurance plan or paying out of pocket.
- ONLY use the
Medicaid/CHIP/Charity Kit (form #NBS3) for newborns Medicaid eligible, covered
by CHIP, or that have absolutely no other payment option (as required in Texas
Administrative Code, Title
25 Section 37.55).
Q: What steps do
providers take for reimbursement of the newborn screening test kit cost?
A:
1) Contact
each health plan or insurance company to update your facility contracts.
2) Verify that Healthcare Common Procedure
Coding System (HCPCS) code S3620 is updated to match the current cost for the
screening kit.
3) Submit newborn screening claims using
HCPCS code S3620.
Notes:
- HCPCS Code
S3620: Newborn metabolic
screening panel includes the test kit and the laboratory tests specified by the state
for inclusion in this panel. The healthcare provider may be responsible
for additional costs not included in the cost of the test kit such as
preparing and shipping the specimen to the DSHS Laboratory.
- CPT code 36416: Collection of capillary blood specimen, may also be used.
Q: What can be done
if the correct reimbursement is not received?
A:
1) Contact the health plan or
insurance company to seek resolution.
2) If no resolution is
identified:
- For Texas Regulated Health Plans (Fully Insured
and HMOs), contact:
Texas
Department of Insurance.
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/hprovider/providercompl.html or
1-800-252-3439
- Self-Funded Plans regulated at the federal
level (Most people who have health insurance in Texas have a self-funded plan),
contact:
U. S. Department of Labor
Division
of Technical Assistance and Inquiries
PWBA N5619
200 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington DC 20210
1-866-444-3272
- If
insurance is provided by a school district, city, county or state government, a
union, or church, work directly with the health plan.
Note: DSHS does not control how insurance companies
operate or the reimbursement rates that are set.
Questions?
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or 512-776-7333
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Posted December 13, 2019
Laboratory
Christmas and New Year Holiday Closure Reminders
Newborn Screening Laboratory (NBS)
Christmas
Holiday Closed Dates: Dec. 25 – Dec. 26
The NBS Laboratory will test specimens received
and accessioned on Dec. 24.
Healthcare providers may be notified of
critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Dec. 25.
NBS testing will resume on Dec. 27.
New
Year’s Holiday Closed Date: Jan. 1
The NBS Laboratory will test specimens
received and accessioned on Dec. 31.
NBS testing will resume on Jan. 2.
Reminders:
DO NOT delay collection or shipment of NBS
specimens.
Specimens must be dried prior to shipment and
should arrive at the DSHS Laboratory within 24 hours after collection or as
soon as possible. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as quickly
as possible.
Clinical Chemistry Laboratory
Christmas
Holiday Closed Dates: Dec. 24 – Dec. 26
Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, lipid,
cholesterol, and creatinine specimens must be received by Dec. 23 to complete
testing before the Christmas holiday.
DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid panel,
glucose, or creatinine specimens Dec. 23 – Dec. 27.
New
Year’s Holiday Closed Date: Jan. 1
Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, lipid,
cholesterol, and creatinine specimens must be received by Dec. 31 to complete
testing before the New Year’s holiday.
DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid panel,
glucose, or creatinine specimens on Dec. 31.
Reminders:
Lead and total hemoglobin specimens must be
received within 14 days of collection.
Microbiology Testing Notices
Christmas Holiday
Closed Dates: Dec. 24 – Dec. 26
New
Year’s Holiday Closed Date: Jan. 1
Rabies
Laboratory
Shipping by Greyhound Bus is highly recommended during weekends and holidays.
Christmas
Rabies specimens received by 8 a.m. on Dec.
23 will
be tested.
Positive results will be called out before 5 p.m.
Specimens received between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec.
23, will
be tested on Dec. 24.
Positive results will be called out by noon.
Negative results will be available on Dec.
27.
Specimens received after 3 p.m. on Dec. 23 through 8 a.m. Dec.
27 will
be tested Dec. 27.
Results will be
called out before 5 p.m.
Specimens received after 8 a.m. Dec. 27, and all specimens
that arrive over the weekend will be tested Dec. 30.
Results
will be called out before 5 p.m.
New Years
Specimens received between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Dec.
31 will
be tested on Jan. 1.
Positive results will be called out by noon.
Negative results will be available on Jan. 2.
Specimens received after 3 p.m. on Dec. 31 and before 8 a.m.
on Jan. 2 will be tested on Jan. 2.
Results
will be called out before 5 p.m.
Emergency testing
is available on Dec.
24, Dec. 26, Dec. 28 and Jan. 2 by arrangement with laboratory personnel
(512-776-7595).
Specimen receipt must be guaranteed by 8 a.m. on
the day of testing.
Viral
Isolation Laboratory
DO NOT ship specimens for delivery Dec. 24 through Dec. 26.
Store specimens collected during this time at -70°C or below.
Ship specimens on dry ice for delivery on Dec. 27.
DO NOT ship specimens
for delivery Dec. 31 through Jan. 1.
Store specimens collected during this time at -70°C or below.
Ship specimens on dry ice for delivery on Jan. 2.
Mycobacteriology/Mycology
Laboratory
To receive expedited AFB Smear and NAA
for M. tuberculosis test results before the Christmas holiday:
Ensure specimens are delivered to the laboratory by 8 a.m. on Dec. 23.
For expedited test requests call 512-776-7342.
DO NOT ship specimens Dec. 23 through Dec.
25.
Store collected specimens in the refrigerator and ship
for delivery on Dec. 27.
DO NOT ship specimens
to be delivered on Dec. 31 or Jan. 1.
Store collected specimens in
refrigerator and ship for delivery on Jan. 2.
Serology
Laboratory
DO NOT ship specimens Dec. 23 through
Dec. 25.
Serum should be separated from the clot and
frozen.
Ship with sufficient dry ice to keep serum
frozen for delivery on Dec. 27.
DO NOT ship specimens to be delivered on Dec. 31 or Jan. 1.
Serum should be separated from the clot and
frozen.
Ship with sufficient dry ice to keep serum
frozen for delivery on Jan. 2.
Advanced
Molecular Microbiology Laboratory
DO NOT ship specimens for CPO colonization
testing to be received the following dates:
Dec. 23 through Dec. 27
Dec. 31 through Jan. 1
DO NOT ship specimens for other bacteria
testing to be received the following dates:
Dec. 24 through Dec. 26
Dec. 31 through Jan. 1
Bacteriology Water Samples
Water samples will not be accepted the
following dates:
Dec. 23 through Dec. 27
Dec. 31 through Jan. 1
Supply Order Requests
Priority overnight shipping requests received
on or before Dec. 20 will be processed as normal.
Requests received by noon on Dec. 23 will be sent FedEx Ground.
Requests received after noon on Dec. 23 through Dec. 26 will be
processed on Dec. 27.
Requests received on Dec. 27 will be processed Dec. 30.
Contact
the Texas DSHS Laboratory:
Call
toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7318 or for local calls 512-776-7318
Email:
LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
Posted November 1, 2019
Result Report Delay Notice
Beginning
November 12, 2019, the DSHS Laboratory has delayed reporting of results for a
small subset of newborn screening specimens due to testing instrument issues.
All
previously reported results are considered accurate and not affected by this issue.
Mitigating
steps have been completed and all delayed results are expected by November 22.
What specimens are affected?
Specimens
received at the laboratory on or after November 8, 2019, which required
additional second tier testing for X-ALD only. This was approximately three
percent of specimens received or ~ 600 blood spots.
How does this impact newborn
screening test results?
Testing for all other newborn screening disorders has
not been delayed.
Clinical Care Coordination staff have continued to contact providers
for all out of range results as soon as testing has been completed.
Clinical Care Coordination staff will contact providers about out of
range X-ALD results upon completion of testing.
What action should
healthcare submitters take?
Ensure receipt of a final report for all results.
Read all screening result notes and follow recommendations.
Follow instructions from clinical care coordination nurses on
ALL abnormal newborn screening results.
Questions?
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls
512-776-7333
Posted December 12, 2019
DSHS Austin
Laboratory Thanksgiving Holiday Closure Reminders
Newborn Screening (NBS)
Testing
Notices:
NBS specimens received and accessioned on
Wednesday, 11/27/2019 will be tested immediately by the NBS laboratory.
Healthcare providers may be notified of
critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Thursday, 11/28/2019
(Thanksgiving Day).
NBS testing will resume on Saturday, 11/30/2019.
Healthcare providers may be notified of
critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Sunday, 12/1/2019.
Healthcare
Provider Reminders:
DO NOT delay collection or shipment of
newborn screening specimens.
Ship dried specimens within 24 hours. If mail
or courier services are unavailable, ship as soon as possible.
Clinical Chemistry
Testing
Notices:
Total hemoglobin, lead, glucose,
lipid/cholesterol and creatinine specimens must be received by Wednesday, 11/27/2019
to complete testing before the holiday.
DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile,
glucose, or creatinine specimens on Fridays or on the day before a state-observed
holiday.
Healthcare
Provider Reminders:
Microbiology
Rabies:
Ship rabies specimens via Greyhound Bus. Specimens received between 8 AM and noon on
Wednesday, 11/27/2019 will be tested Friday, 11/29/2019.
Positive results will be called out before
noon Friday, 11/29/2019.
Emergency testing is available on Friday, 11/29/2019
and Saturday, 11/30/2019 by arrangement with laboratory personnel
(512-776-7595). Specimen receipt must be guaranteed.
All other specimens will be tested on Monday,
12/2/2019 and reported before 5 PM.
Viral
Isolation Laboratory:
Do
not ship specimens Wednesday, 11/27/2019 – Sunday, 12/1/2019. Store specimens collected during this time at
-70°C or below.
Ship
specimens on dry ice the week of 12/2/2019.
Mycobacteriology/Mycology
Laboratory (TB):
Ensure
critical AFB Smear and NAA for M. tuberculosis specimens are delivered to the
laboratory by 8:30 AM on Wednesday, 11/27/2019.
Call
512-776-7342 for expedited test requests before 9 AM on Wednesday, 11/27/2019.
Do
not ship specimens Wednesday, 11/27/2019 to Friday, 11/29/2019. Keep specimens in refrigerated storage until
shipment.
Specimens
will not be tested from Thursday, 11/28/2019 to Sunday, 12/1/2019.
Bacteriology Water Samples
Water samples will not be accepted the
following dates:
November 27, 2019 - December 1, 2019
December 23, 2019 - December 27, 2019
December 31, 2019 - January 1, 2020
Supply Order Requests
Priority overnight shipping requests received
on 11/26/2019 will be issued and sent as normal.
All other requests received by noon on 11/26/2019
will be sent FedEx Ground.
Requests received after noon on 11/26/2019 through
12/1 will be sent Monday, 12/2/2019.
Questions?
1-888-963-7111
ext. 7318 or locally 512-776-7318
Posted November 04, 2019
Check the Expiration Date on Newborn
Screening Kits
Newborn Screening (NBS) kits beginning with serial number 17 (17-XXXXXX), EXPIRED
on October 31, 2019.
Do Not Use ‘17 kits to collect NBS specimens.
Specimens collected on ‘17 kits after
October 31, 2019 will be REJECTED.
To Exchange NBS4 (Insurance/Self-Pay) Kits:
Count the
number of remaining expired NBS4 kits
Write the
number of expired NBS4 kits to exchange in the “Quantity Requested” box
Write
“Exchange” in the Billing –
Purchase Order Number box
Ship
the completed form and
Container
Preparation Group: expired
NBS4 kits to the
Courier
Delivery Address (FedEx, UPS, or other)
DSHS – Laboratory Services Section
Container Preparation Group
1100 W. 49th St.
Austin, TX 78756-3199
USPS
Address (regular mail service)
DSHS – Laboratory Services Section,
MC 1947
Container Preparation Group
PO Box 149341
Austin, TX 78714-9341
NOTE: Do
NOT return expired NBS3 (Medicaid/Charity Care/CHIP) kits. Dispose of them
appropriately.
The shipping cost is the responsibility of the submitter
Exchanges are accepted up to 3 months after the kit expiration date (e.g kits expired on October 31, 2019 need to be received by DSHS on or before January 31, 2020)
Allow DSHS five (5) business days from receipt of exchange request to process the request
To order additional new kits:
Complete
a
Send the
completed form to the Container
Preparation Group
NOTE: Orders for
additional kits will not be processed from the same G-6D form as the request
for exchange of expired kits. Only the exchange will be processed.
Additional
Information:
Questions
/ Comments
888-963-7111
ext. 7661 or 512-776-7661
Posted November 1, 2019
Hemoglobin D Reporting Change
Due to issues with obtaining quality
control material from our manufacturer, effective 10/28/2019, “Hemoglobin D”
will no longer be reported. Specimens showing possible Hemoglobin D during
testing will be reported as “Other” hemoglobin variant. If the manufacturer is
able to provide quality control material in the future, we will return to being
able to report out the Hemoglobin D result.
For questions
or comments:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted October 24, 2019
CHECK
NEWBORN SCREENING KIT EXPIRATION DATES
Newborn Screening kits with a serial number beginning with 17 (17-XXXXXXX) EXPIRE
on October 31, 2019.
Use ‘17 kits first to collect specimens before they expire.
Specimens collected on ‘17 kits after October 31, 2019 will be REJECTED.
Questions / Comments
888-963-7111
ext. 7333 or 512-776-7333
Posted October 8, 2019
Changes to the Texas DSHS
Laboratory Fee Schedule
Including a fee increase to
the NBS test
Dear Colleague,
The Department
of State Health
Services (DSHS) Laboratory Services
Section
(LSS) is
in the process of revising laboratory testing and fees for laboratory services to meet business needs. These revisions are
proposed to take effect
January 1, 2020.
Stakeholders can submit comments until December
30, 2019 at LabInfo@dshs.texas.gov
or by mail at: Laboratory Services
Section, Attn. Fee Schedule Changes, PO Box 149347, Austin, TX 78714-9347.
There will be a fee increase to the NBS test:
Effective January
1, 2020, the new cost of PAID newborn screening
(NBS) kits will be raised to $60.58 due to the addition of X-linked
adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) to the newborn screening test panel. PAID NBS kits ordered on or after January 1, 2020 will
be billed at the new price of $60.58.
Other fee schedule
changes
fee
changes to existing tests,
changes
to test names to more accurately reflect the actual test procedure,
new
tests added, and
existing
tests discontinued.
The new fee schedules will be posted to the DSHS
Laboratory website by![]()
January
1, 2020. To view the current
Austin and South Texas DSHS Laboratory fee schedules, please use the following
link: http://www.dshs.texas.gov/lab/fees.shtm
NBS
questions or comments:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local
calls 512-776-7333
Posted October 1, 2019
September is National Newborn Screening Awareness
Month
Thank you
for ensuring Texas babies are screened!
Newborn
screening is recognized as the largest and most successful public health disease
prevention program in the US.
- On
August 5, 2019, X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), was the 54
th
disorder added to the
- To
learn more about newborn screening, visit
- Mark
your calendar,
BabysFirstTest.org will host a Twitter Chat (#2019NBS)
on
September 17th at 2pm EST!
.jpg "#1 Baby Foot")
Posted September 10, 2019
Newborn Screening X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy
(X-ALD)
ACT and FACT Sheets
The Texas Newborn
Screening Program plans to begin screening for X-ALD on August 5, 2019.
Healthcare providers can learn more about the
condition and out of range screen protocols by reviewing X-ALD
ACT and FACT sheets.
The
Newborn Screening Program expects around 40 Texas children to benefit from
X-ALD screening each year.
The
Clinical Care Coordination Team will contact the primary care provider of any
child with an abnormal newborn screen. The nurse will provide follow-up
guidance and answer any questions.
Newborns
with an abnormal newborn screen require a referral for diagnostic evaluation. Children
with a confirmed diagnosis will need multidisciplinary care, including
metabolic, endocrine, and neurology.
Thank you for
helping keep Texas newborns healthy!
Questions?
Contact Newborn Screening Program:
1-800-252-8023 ext. 3957
Newborn@dshs.texas.gov
Posted July 25, 2019
Newborn Screening Fee Increase
The Texas Newborn Screening Program (NSP) received a $1.2 million appropriation for X-ALD screening implementation in the 2018-19 General Appropriations Act, S.B. 1, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, 2017. Funding for ongoing testing costs after implementation was appropriated in S.B. 500, 86th Legislative, Regular Session, 2019. The additional funding will allow the Texas NSP to begin testing for X-ALD on August 5, 2019.
Q: When does the fee increase start?
A: The fee is currently expected to increase January 1, 2020.
Q: How much will the fee increase?
A: The fee for each insurance/self-pay test kit is expected to increase about $5 - $6. Stakeholders will be notified of the exact amount a minimum of 90 days prior to the increase.
Q: Why is the fee increasing?
A: DSHS will expand the Texas Newborn Screening (NBS) Panel to include X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) and must increase the fee to cover the additional cost of providing X-ALD screening and follow-up services.
Q: What CPT code can be submitted to insurance companies for X-ALD?
A: 82726 Very Long Chain Fatty Acid
Note: Find more information on CPT codes to use here.
Q: Who pays for the insurance/self-pay kits?
A: DSHS will bill the person or facility that orders insurance/self-pay test kits.
Tips for choosing and using the correct kit:
Use the Insurance/Self-Pay Test Kit (form #NBS4) for newborns that are covered under a private insurance plan or will pay out of pocket.
Use the Medicaid/CHIP/Charity Test Kit (form #NBS3)
ONLY for Medicaid eligible newborns, newborns covered by CHIP, or newborns that have absolutely no other payment option as required in Texas Administrative Code,
Posted June 24, 2019
Newborn Screening Result Reports and Result Reporting Statements for
X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD)
In 2017, the Texas Legislature provided the Texas Newborn Screening Program (NSP) $1.2 million for X-ALD screening implementation. During the recently-concluded 86th Legislative Session, the Legislature provided further funding for ongoing testing costs. The additional funding will allow the Texas NSP to begin testing for X-ALD on August 5, 2019. Please find information below on how X-ALD results will be displayed. Facilities that report electronically may need to add this information to their systems.
X-ALD Results will display in an additional row on the disorder table:
Result Reporting Statements for X-ALD include:
Questions?
Call: 1-888-963-7111 x7333 or locally 512-776-7333
Posted June 14, 2019
New Contact Information for Remote Data Systems Help
Effective June 3, 2019
Customers using Result Web Portal, Newborn Screening Web Application (Neometrics), or both, must contact the HHSC Consolidated Help Desk for password and login issues.
HHSC Consolidated Help Desk:
Phone: 855-435-7181
Questions?
Call: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7578 or for local calls 512-776-7578
Posted May 31, 2019
Changes to
Newborn Screening Result Reporting Statements
Effective April
11, 2019
Changes include:
The analyte result will now be included in the Screening Result Notes.
- Example:
“Possible Maple Syrup Urine Disease.
Leucine Slightly Elevated; Valine Elevated. Recommend plasma quantitative amino acids and urine organic acids within 24 hours and immediate telephone consultation with a pediatric metabolic specialist.”
Modifications to Screening Result Notes for some disorders:
Updated recommendations for some confirmatory testing and follow up care
Updated referral and specimen recollection timeframes
Improved uniformity of notes across full range of notes
A full list of newborn screening test reporting results can be found
here.
Reminder: Read screening result notes fully before taking action.
Questions / Comments
Call 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or locally 512-776-7333
Posted April 3, 2019
IMPORTANT NOTICE
X-linked
Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) Screen to be Added to
Texas Newborn
Screening Panel
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is beginning the process to add X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) screening to the Texas Newborn Screening (NBS) Panel.
What is X-ALD?
X-ALD happens when the body cannot breakdown certain fats (very long chain fatty acids – VLCFAs). These fats then build up, affecting the nervous system and adrenal glands the most.
How common is X-ALD?
About 1 in 17,000 babies are affected by X-ALD; it most severely affects males.
Where can I find more information on X-ALD?
Watch for continued updates, including list serve announcements, throughout the implementation process.
When will X-ALD be added to the Texas NBS Panel?
This addition is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2019.
Will there be a fee increase?
Yes, an increase is expected. DSHS will notify stakeholders of the amount at least 90 days prior to implementation.
Will more blood be needed to complete this test?
No. Continue to collect 5 completely saturated blood spots.
What conditions are included on Texas Newborn
Screening Panel?
Currently, Texas screens for
31 identified core conditions, and reports on an additional
24 secondary conditions. Note: Secondary conditions may be detected during screening for core conditions and some secondary conditions may be as severe and life threatening as core conditions.
A list of the conditions on the Texas Newborn Screening Panel can be found
here (pdf).
For questions or comments:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or 512-776-7333
Posted March 21, 2019
Updated Newborn
Screening Refusal
Form Now Available
Healthcare providers, your help is needed to ensure parents understand the purpose and importance of newborn screening before they refuse.
Steps to take if
parent refuses newborn screening:
Discuss the general purpose and benefits of newborn screening.
Answer all questions the parents may have about newborn screening.
Provide printed
Explain that the only legal reason to refuse is if the test conflicts with the religious practices of an organized church of which they are members.
Show the parents:
If the parent still
refuses:
- Download the
Form to Refuse the Newborn Screening Blood Test (
Have the parent complete and sign the form.
File the top part of the form in the patient’s medical record.
Send the bottom part to the DSHS Newborn Screening Laboratory. You can send it in with other newborn screening specimens.
For more information or questions:
Call toll free: (888) 963-7111 ext. 7333
BIOCHEMISTRY AND GENETICS BRANCH * LABORATORY SERVICES * PO BOX 149347 * AUSTIN, TX 78714-3194
Posted March 21, 2019
NEW!
Texas Newborn Screening (NBS) Annual
Report
TOGETHER in 2018 we:
Screened over 380,000 babies and over 740,000 NBS specimens
Identified over 750 babies (to date) affected by one of the NBS Disorders
Texas babies depend on the entire NBS System - KEEP UP THE TEAMWORK!
Annual Texas statistics
Texas’ status on achieving the
*U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNC)
Questions / Comments
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 OR 512-776-7333
BIOCHEMISTRY AND GENETICS BRANCH * LABORATORY SERVICES SECTION * PO BOX 149347 * AUSTIN, TX 78714-3194
Posted March 13, 2019
Please complete the following survey. Your responses are very important as they help us improve our services.
The survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Please click “OK” to begin the survey.
Please complete the survey by March 25, 2019.
If you have questions, contact the DSHS Laboratory at 512-776-7598.
Posted February 27, 2019
Process
Change for Electronically Received Newborn
Screening Demographic Information
Effective March 1, 2019, the DSHS Laboratory will update the process for electronically submitted newborn screening specimen demographic information.
The revised process has been developed to minimize specimen testing delays, decrease potential processing errors, and reduce staff time handling erroneously entered electronic demographic information.
Questions?
Call: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
BIOCHEMISTRY AND GENETICS BRANCH * LABORATORY SERVICES SECTION * PO BOX 149347 * AUSTIN, TX 78714-3194
Posted February 13, 2019
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory Services Section(LSS) is proposing changes to the Texas Administrative Code (TAC).
The purpose of the changes is to repeal rules §73.54 and §73.55 related to the Fee Schedule for Clinical Testing and Newborn Screening, as well as Chemical Analyses, from TAC. Additionally, rule §73.41 will be amended to direct stakeholders to the LSS website to view the most current laboratory fee schedule.
Posted January 10, 2019
2019 IS Here
Wrong dates will delay specimen testing or cause specimen REJECTION.
Avoid Delays and Specimen Rejection:
Ensure dates (including
year) are complete and accurate.
Assign staff to double check that all specimen information is:
Respond to DSHS staff requests for clarifying information.
Example of correct date and time format:
.png "RE%%")
For questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted January 2, 2019
2019 Will Soon Be Here
Wrong dates will delay specimen testing or cause
specimen
REJECTION.
Avoid Delays and Specimen
Rejection:
Ensure dates (including
year) are complete and accurate.
Assign staff to double check that all specimen information is:
Respond to DSHS staff requests for clarifying information.
.png "RE%%")
For
questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
ATTENTION SUBMITTERS
CHECK THE
EXPIRATION DATE ON
DSHS SNAP-APART
FILTER PAPER CARDS
DSHS Snap-Apart filter paper cards, with lot number W131 (magenta ink),
EXPIRE on January 31, 2019.
These cards are used for Hemoglobin Electrophoresis, PKU monitoring, and DNA testing.
Specimens collected on these cards after January 31, 2019 will beREJECTED.
What to do next:
Discard any remaining cards after 1/31/2019.
To order more DSHS Snap Apart Filter Paper Cards:
Questions
/ Comments
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted December 18, 2018
Austin Laboratory Christmas and New Year
Holiday Closure Reminders
Newborn Screening Laboratory:
Christmas Holiday Closed Dates:
12/25/2018 – 12/26/2018
Newborn screening specimens received and accessioned on Monday, 12/24/2018 will be tested immediately by the Newborn Screening Laboratory.
Healthcare providers may be notified of critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Tuesday, 12/25/2018.
Newborn screening testing will resume on Thursday, 12/27/18.
New Year’s Holiday Closed Date: 1/1/2019
Newborn screening specimens received and accessioned on Monday, 12/31/2018 will be tested immediately by the Newborn Screening Laboratory.
Newborn screening testing will resume on Wednesday, 1/2/2019.
Reminders:
DO NOT delay collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
Ship dried specimens within 24 hours. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as quickly as possible.
Questions? Contact the Texas DSHS Laboratory:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7318 or for local calls 512-776-7318
Posted December 6, 2018
RESULTS ARE JUST A CLICK AWAY…
Sign up for a free online account today!
Available remote data systems:
Newborn Screening (NBS) Results via Neometrics
Clinical Chemistry (THSTEPS) Results via Results-Web Portal
Public Health Microbiology (PH) Results via Results-Web Portal
- Public Health Microbiology (PHLIMS for Epidemiologists) Results via
Results-Web Portal (LabWare)
Signing up is easy!
To use the above remote data system(s), complete these forms:
One Facility Security Agreement per facility (or per Submitter ID)
(pdf)
One Web User Access Agreement per user
More information about the web applications can be found on the DSHS Laboratory Services Section website
here.
Posted October 30, 2018
NEWBORN SCREENING:
TIPS ON HOW TO COMPLETE THE DEMOGRAPHIC FORM
Manual entry on the
demographic form:
Complete all areas
Use black ink
Write in CAPITAL LETTERS, apply enough pressure for carbon copy
Enter
correct birth date and collection date
- Enter GRAMS for birthweight:
Enter only LAST NAME in Last Name Field
Enter only FIRST NAME in First Name Field
- Write corresponding number in the box for numbered fields (example below)
.png "0000000000000")
Using DSHS
approved demographic labels:
Ensure all entered information is printed correctly on labels
Enter
correct birth date and collection date
Your help is needed. Please ensure all information is complete, accurate, and legible prior to shipping. Incorrect, missing, misplaced, or invalid information can cause specimen rejection, delays in testing, and incorrect testing results and reports.
For questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7578 or for local calls 512-776-7578
Email:
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Posted October 30, 2018
ATTENTION NEWBORN SCREENING SUBMITTERS
Hemoglobin G Reporting Resumes October 11, 2018
Effective 10/11/2018, specimens showing possible Hemoglobin G during testing, resumed reporting as “Hemoglobin G”.
For questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Email:
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Posted October 16, 2018
Texas Department of State Health Services - Laboratory
Thanksgiving Holiday Closure Reminders
The Texas DSHS Laboratory in Austin will be closed:
11/22/2018 - Thursday
11/23/2018 – Friday
Newborn Screening (NBS)
Testing Notices:
NBS specimens received and accessioned on Wednesday, 11/21/2018 will be tested immediately by the NBS laboratory.
Healthcare providers may be notified of critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Thursday, 11/22/2018 (Thanksgiving Day).
NBS testing will resume on Saturday, 11/24/2018.
Healthcare providers may be notified of critical level preliminary presumptive positive results on Sunday, 11/25/2018.
Healthcare Provider
Reminders:
DO NOT delay collection or shipment of newborn screening specimens.
Ship dried specimens within 24 hours. If mail or courier services are unavailable, ship as quickly as possible.
Clinical Chemistry
Testing
Notices:
The Clinical Chemistry laboratory must receive specimen submissions for total hemoglobin, lead, glucose, lipid/cholesterol and creatinine testing by Wednesday, 11/21/2018 to complete testing prior to the holiday.
DO NOT ship cholesterol, lipid profile, glucose, or creatinine specimens on Fridays or on the day before a state-observed holiday.
Healthcare
Provider Reminders:
Specimens submitted for lead and total hemoglobin testing must be received within 14 days of collection.
Specimens submitted for glucose, lipid/cholesterol and creatinine testing must be received according to specimen submission guidelines available at
http://www.dshs.texas.gov/lab/mrs_labtests_toc.shtm
Microbiology
Testing Notices:
- Specimens for rabies testing should be shipped via Greyhound Bus. Specimens received between 8 AM and noon on
Wednesday, 11/21/2018 will be tested
Friday, 11/23/2018 and positive results will be called out before noon.
- Emergency testing will be available on Friday, 11/23/2018 and Saturday, 11/24/2018 by arrangement with laboratory personnel (512-776-7595) if specimen receipt can be guaranteed. Negative specimen results will be available Monday,
11/26/2018. All other specimens will be tested on
Monday, 11/26/2018 and reported before
5 PM.
Healthcare Provider Reminders:
- Viral Isolation
Laboratory: Do not ship specimens Wednesday, 11/21/2018 – Sunday, 11/25/2018. If specimens are collected during this time
period, please store at -70°C or below and ship specimens the following week,
beginning
Monday, 11/26/2018
on dry
ice.
- Mycobacteriology/Mycology
Laboratory (TB): To receive expedited AFB
Smear and/or NAAfor M. tuberculosis test results before
the holiday, please ensure that specimens are delivered to the laboratory by
8:30 AM on Wednesday, 11/21/2018
.
Please telephone expedited test requests to 512-776-7342.
Questions? Contact the Texas DSHS Laboratory:
Call toll free:
1-888-963-7111 ext. 7318 or for local calls 512-776-7318
Posted October 2, 2018
Changes
to Newborn Screening CAH Testing and Result Reporting Statements Effective
September 17, 2018
The Texas DSHS Newborn Screening (NBS) Laboratory added a second-tier reflex test for screening of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). Two new CAH result reporting statements were added, and all other abnormal CAH results were updated to reflect the addition of this testing
methodology. These updates went into effect on September 17, 2018.
A full list of all test results can be found here:
Reminder:
Read screening result notes fully before taking action.
Original notification: “Changes to Newborn Screening CAH Testing and Result Reporting Statements” sent on September 4, 2018, can be found
here.
Questions / Comments
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted September 18, 2018
September
is National Newborn Screening Awareness Month
Thank you for ensuring the babies of
Texas are screened!
Newborn screening is recognized as the largest and most successful public health disease prevention program in the US.
Your involvement in early detection and treatment is crucial to prevent death or a lifetime of severe disabilities. Through the Texas Newborn Screening Panel, more than 850 babies are diagnosed with one of the 53 screened conditions each year.
Questions / Comments
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted September 10, 2018
In February 2015, the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNC) formalized a series of recommendations regarding newborn screening (NBS) timeliness goals. One recommendation is that NBS specimens should be received at the state laboratory as soon as possible;
ideally within 24 hours of collection.
To help facilities monitor the progress of this recommendation, the NBS Facility Report Cards will change starting with August 2018 data.
For questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted September 10, 2018
Attention Newborn Screening Submitters Change to hemoglobin reporting
Due to issues with quality control material, effective 9/6/2018, “Hemoglobin G” will no longer be reported. Specimens showing possible Hemoglobin G during testing will be reported as “Other” hemoglobin variant.
For questions or comments:
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted September 06, 2018
Changes to Newborn
Screening CAH Testing and Result Reporting Statements
The Texas DSHS Newborn Screening (NBS) Laboratory is adding a second-tier
reflex test for screening of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). Two new CAH result
reporting statements will be added and all other abnormal CAH results will be
updated to reflect the addition of testing methodology. These updates are scheduled to go into effect September 17, 2018. All
changes are indicated in red. Please see Attachment.
Reminders:
Read Screening Result Notes fully before taking action.
Contact the DSHS Laboratory with any questions:
Telephone: 1-888-963-7111 X7585 or x2638
Posted September 04, 2018
Attention Newborn Screening Submitters
2016 Newborn
Screening kits with a serial number beginning with 16
(16-XXXXXXX) EXPIRE on
September 1, 2018.
Check the Expiration Date on Your
Newborn Screening kits.
Do
Not Use ‘16 kits to collect NBS specimens.
All
specimens collected on ‘16 kits after
September 1, 2018 will be REJECTED.
NBS4
(Insurance/Self-Pay) Kit Exchange Process
Count the number of expired NBS4 kits. Write the number of forms to be exchanged in the appropriate “Quantity Requested” box
Write “
Exchange” in the “Billing – Purchase Order Number” box section of the form
Send the completed form and expired NBS4 kits to the Container Preparation Group. The mailing address can be found on the
Exchanges will only be accepted for up to
3 months after the kit expiration date (e.g. kits expired on September 1, 2018 need to be received by DSHS on or before December 1, 2018)
Allow DSHS 5 business days from receipt of exchange request to process the request.
Note:
To order additional new kits, complete a second
G-6D “Newborn Screening Supplies” order form. Orders for additional kits will not be processed from the same G-6D form as the request for exchange of expired kits. Only the exchange will be processed.
Do NOT return expired NBS3 (Medicaid/Charity Care/CHIP) kits. Dispose of them appropriately.
Additional
Information
For more information review the Frequently Asked Questions section about kit exchange
Frequently Asked Questions section about kit exchange on the Newborn Screening website.
Questions / Comments
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7661 or for local calls 512-776-7661
Posted August 31, 2018
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory Services Section is proposing changes to the Texas Administrative Code (TAC).
The purpose of the changes is to repeal rules §73.54 and §73.55 related to the Fee Schedule for Clinical Testing and Newborn Screening, as well as Chemical Analyses, from TAC. Additionally, rule §73.41 will be amended to direct stakeholders to the LSS website to view the most current laboratory fee schedule.
Changes to the Laboratory’s Public Fee Schedule will be made based on the business needs of the LSS and the public health needs of the department and posted on the Laboratory’s website for stakeholder review. Changes to available laboratory testing and related pricing may include implementing new testing methodologies, updating fees to reflect the cost of testing, and eliminating certain low volume tests to make more efficient use of staff time and to reduce costs. Any increase in fees may include processes for stakeholder input as well as customer communication regarding all changes to the fee schedule.
For questions or comments please contact Martha Thompson at
martha.thompson@dshs.texas.gov or
(512) 776-6191 by August 31, 2018.
Posted August 20, 2018
Notice of Rider 37 Stakeholder Meeting - DSHS Newborn Screening Program
Thursday, July 12, 2018 2:00pm – 4:00pm
The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) will hold a stakeholder meeting to accept comments as the agency develops a report for the S.B. 1, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, Article II, Department of State Health Services, Rider 37. DSHS will receive oral or written comments by interested persons. Individuals can present oral statements when called upon in order of registration. DSHS will determine the comment time for each individual by the total number of persons registered to speak in the time allotted. If time permits, each speaker will have three minutes, but this amount may be adjusted to allow for more registrants to provide comments.
Location:
Department of State Health Services Central Campus
Moreton Building – Room M-100
1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX
For location details:
http://www.dshs.texas.gov/visitor/complex.shtm
Background:
The 2017-18 General Appropriations Act, S.B. 1, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, 2017 (Article II, Department of State Health Services, Rider 37) requires the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to study the most effective way to bill private insurers for newborn screening kits. The study must include the feasibility of requiring DSHS to bill private insurers for the cost of newborn screening kits and of requiring private insurers to automatically update their payment rates for the cost of newborn screening kits based on panel changes.
Stakeholders may provide comments in person on July 12th or submit written comments until August 3, 2018. Stakeholders are encouraged to share this notice with colleagues and affiliated organizations, partners, and anyone who may be interested in this report.
Written comments may be sent to:
E-mail:
NewbornScreeningLab@dshs.texas.gov
Fax: 512-776-7221 Attention: Newborn Screening
Mail:
Texas Department of State Health Services
Newborn Screening Laboratory, MC 1947
PO Box 149347
Austin, TX 78714-9347
Review the
Stakeholder Meeting Agenda for details regarding meeting topics and comment opportunities.
Attention
Newborn Screening Submitters
Questions / Comments
Call toll free: 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7333 or for local calls 512-776-7333
Posted Jun 15, 2018
DSHS is conducting this survey to:
Gain understanding of potential billing barriers faced by healthcare providers
Gather information as part of a larger study by DSHS to assess the most effective way to bill private insurers for newborn screening kits.
Click
here to complete this quick survey. Your responses are confidential and any information provided will be used as part of the billing effectiveness study only. Your participation is greatly appreciated.
Please complete
survey by Sunday, April 15, 2018.
Re-posted Apr 18, 2018
Choosing the Correct Kit for Specimen Collection
posted Jan 12, 2018
Dates need to be recorded accurately (including year). Be mindful of the year change. Invalid dates (months, days or years) will cause unnecessary delays in testing or a specimen to be REJECTED.
posted Jan 03, 2018
Hurricane Harvey Contingencies: Newborn Screening
Important Actions:
For All Newborns in your care:
Collect 1
st screens at 24-48 hours of age.
Collect 2
nd screens at 7-14 days of age.
The 2
nd screen may be the earliest opportunity to identify a newborn screening disorder.
If the 1
st screen was missed, collect a specimen as soon as possible,
Collect the 2
nd screen soon after 7 days of age.
Ensure the parent/guardian contact information will be valid throughout any potential family/baby relocation.
Ship specimens as soon as possible.
Ensure that newborn screening results are known, documented, and discussed with the family/caregiver.
Facilitate repeat or confirmatory testing, appropriate subspecialty referral and timely intervention if necessary
Services:
The Texas Newborn Screening Program is fully operational and here to provide service and support.
Contact the DSHS Laboratory if you need specific help or have a suggestion on how DSHS can assist you with getting newborn screening specimens to the Laboratory.
Posted Sept 7, 2017
Note: External links to other sites are intended to be informational and do not have the endorsement of the Texas Department of State Health Services. These sites may also not be accessible to people with disabilities.