Robertahttp://www.vahealth.org/genetics/newgp.htm
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
Background
SB 1007 (Ticer) passed the 2001 General Assembly and added congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) to the newborn screening tests performed in Virginia. The test was added after the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) prepared A Study of the Feasibility of Adding Congenital Hyperplasia to Newborn Screening Tests. (This report, Senate Document 27, is available from the bill room at 804-786-6984.)The Newborn Screening Program, a component of the Genetics Program in the Division of Women's and Infants' Health in VDH, receives positive screening results for blood samples taken from newborns who are screened for genetic disorders from the Division of Consolidated Laboratories, Department of General Services (DGS). VDH staff notify physicians of positive diagnoses so they can contact parents and offer information, counseling and treatment for their baby.
Implementation
VDH is working with the DGS to add this test to the seven tests currently being used to screen newborns. The lab is responsible for purchasing and testing equipment and incorporating the screen into existing testing. In collaboration both agencies developing a curriculum on CAH to be used in training staff at hospitals who will test newborns for CAH.VDH has contracted with a nurse to develop and plan training, which will take place in November and December. At the same time, DGS will be testing the equipment and beginning a pilot program to ensure the quality of the testing.
VDH is responsible for developing simple brochures for health care professionals and parents on CAH. Brochures will be distributed in hard copy and will also be available in on the Office of Family Health Services Web site at www.vahealth.org/genetics/index.htm. Tennessee's and North Carolina's training programs and brochures are being adapted for use in Virginia.
The program will complete training, testing, and materials development the end of this year in time to begin statewide testing for CAH by January 1, 2002.
For further information contact either CJ Connor (804-371-8836) or Sharon Williams (371-4103) in the newborn screening program at VDH.
Contact us at genetics@vdh.state.va.us
1500 E. Main St., Room 136, Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: (804) 371-8836 • FAX: (804) 786-3442