Kentucky screens newborns through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, covering all 38 federal RUSP core conditions plus secondary conditions — a full-RUSP program.
Kentucky newborn screening at a glance
- Conditions screened: about 60, plus newborn hearing and critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening
- Program: Kentucky Newborn Screening Program
- Compared to the federal RUSP: screens the full RUSP (all 38 core conditions)
- Official source: Kentucky newborn screening program
What the Kentucky panel covers
The panel includes PKU and other metabolic disorders, endocrine and hemoglobin conditions such as sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, SCID, and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), plus Pompe and Krabbe disease.
Counting hearing and CCHD screening, Kentucky’s program reaches roughly 60 conditions and screens every one of the 38 federal core disorders.
Why the Kentucky panel stops where it does
The size of Kentucky’s panel is not a limit of technology. Every condition on a state panel has to clear evidence review, secure ongoing funding, and be formally adopted, which is why recent additions took years of work. Many treatable, childhood-onset conditions that today’s sequencing can already detect simply have not moved through that public-health pipeline yet.
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 — well beyond any state panel. Samples are sequenced in CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited labs, and results are delivered with support from board-certified genetic counselors. It does not replace the Kentucky state screen; it extends it, using technology available today rather than waiting for the public program to expand. Compare all 50 states, read what newborn screening tests for, or start screening.
Frequently asked questions
How many conditions does Kentucky screen for?
Kentucky screens for about 60 through its bloodspot panel and point-of-care checks. Counts are approximate and change as the state updates its panel, so confirm current details with the Kentucky program.
Is newborn screening required in Kentucky?
Newborn screening is standard for every baby born in Kentucky. Rules on declining vary, so check current guidance from the Kentucky newborn screening program.
How do I get my baby’s Kentucky results?
Results are sent to your baby’s healthcare provider. Ask your pediatrician, or contact the Kentucky newborn screening program for a copy.
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 Kentucky Newborn Screening Program (as of March 2026). Sources: Kentucky newborn screening program; HRSA Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.