National Newborn Screening tenets implemented: MoHAP

Hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country have initiated compliance with the National Newborn Screening Guidelines, which were recently endorsed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and came into effect on Aug.16.

- Maitha Al Onsi, Staff Reporter

MoHAP confirmed that the accredited reference laboratory conducting tests related to newborn screening is required to adhere to the National Newborn Screening Guidelines.

This means that the laboratory must conduct the physical examination within the country, and conduct confirmatory tests within the country. However, in exceptional circumstances, confirmatory tests may be conducted in reference laboratories outside the country upon the request of the health authority and subsequent approval from the Ministry of Health.

This is only for tests that cannot be performed in reference laboratories located within the country.