Expanded newborn screening price tag: $3.3MM

I learned in a meeting with members of the health/medical community that the expansion of newborn screening tests I am proposing will not include any additional intrusive testing -- the health dept. can merely take the exact sample used for existing tests for the 29 expanded screening conditions. In order to begin the expanded testing, the state needs to purchase the testing instrument itself (approx $450K) along with the employment of a directing physician and a scientist (along with marketing, etc.). These costs are not factored into the cost of the tests themselves.

the tests are about $90 each, and there are approximately 36,000-37,000 births in the state annually. Approval of this proposal would put Arkansas at the top of national rankings for newborn screening.

Newborn screening will not only allow for detection and treatment to begin early but can also help in researching cures for dozens of conditions. There are drawbacks, including some false positives that are inevitable with medical testing. Also, there are some conditions tested for which there is no treatment, but at least parents can have the satisfaction of knowing the condition from which their child suffers.

Additionally, the savings that the state will reap will likely pay for these additional tests in the long run. Fewer trips to medical providers seeking a diagnosis at later stages in an infant's life will be a benefit that most people do not anticipate, experts say. This appropriation, though, may face some strong opposition based on several other key budget proposals that are being sought this session. I'll keep you updated on this legislation.