California runs one of the most comprehensive newborn screening programs in the country, screening every newborn for more than 75 conditions through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), plus a hearing test and a pulse-oximetry check for critical congenital heart disease. The panel covers all of the federal Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) core conditions and adds many beyond them.
The screening sample is collected from a heel prick in the first days of life and processed through CDPH’s laboratories. Results go to your baby’s doctor, and any out-of-range result is referred for confirmatory testing.
California newborn screening at a glance
- Conditions screened: more than 75, plus hearing and critical congenital heart disease
- Program: California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Newborn Screening Program
- Compared to the RUSP: exceeds the federal panel
What the California panel covers
The panel spans the main categories: metabolic disorders such as PKU and MSUD, endocrine disorders such as congenital hypothyroidism and CAH, hemoglobin disorders such as sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, SCID, SMA, and galactosemia.
Why even California’s broad panel has a ceiling
California exceeds federal recommendations, so the point is not that the state is behind. It is that even the best-funded public program has a ceiling set by budget, not by technology. Screening every newborn for a condition costs money at scale, and each addition moves through an evidence and adoption process, so the panel will always trail what sequencing can detect.
How Fore extends newborn screening
Fore Genomics offers an at-home genetic screen that uses a simple cheek swab to look at the genes tied to more than 1,000 clinically actionable, childhood-onset conditions, beyond even California’s comprehensive list. Samples are sequenced in CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited labs, with results supported by board-certified genetic counselors. See how it works or start screening.
Frequently asked questions
How many conditions does California screen for?
More than 75 through the blood spot panel, plus hearing and critical congenital heart disease screening, making it one of the broadest state panels in the country.
Is newborn screening required in California?
California requires newborn screening for every infant, with a religious exemption process. See current CDPH guidance for details.
Medically reviewed by Fore’s Clinical Team. This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice. State screening panels change; confirm current details with the California Department of Public Health. Sources: CDPH Newborn Screening Program; HRSA Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.