Virginia screens every newborn for around 35 conditions (the federal Recommended Uniform Screening Panel core) through the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services, plus a hearing test and a pulse-oximetry check for critical congenital heart disease.
The screening sample is collected from a heel prick in the first days of life. Results go to your baby’s doctor, and any out-of-range result leads to confirmatory testing.
Virginia newborn screening at a glance
- Conditions screened: around 35 (the RUSP core), plus hearing and critical congenital heart disease
- Program: Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services
- Compared to the RUSP: aligned with the federal core panel
What the Virginia panel covers
The panel spans 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 the Virginia panel stops where it does
Virginia covers the federal core conditions, and the reason it does not go further is budget and process, not technology. Each new condition must clear evidence review, secure funding, and be adopted by the state, so treatable conditions that today’s sequencing can detect may not be on the public panel yet.
How Fore extends newborn screening
Fore Genomics offers an at-home genetic screen that uses a simple cheek swab to assess the genes tied to more than 1,000 clinically actionable, childhood-onset conditions, beyond the state panel. 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 Virginia screen for?
Around 35 conditions tracking the federal RUSP core, plus hearing and critical congenital heart disease screening.
Is newborn screening required in Virginia?
Virginia requires newborn screening for every infant. See current Virginia Department of Health 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 Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. Sources: Virginia DCLS; HRSA Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.