Newborn screening follow-up within the lifespan context: Michigan's experience.

Abstract

Experience in using various data sources for surveillance systems and studies complements the growing knowledge base regarding requirements for newborn screening follow-up, which include integration with services other than clinical subspecialties. A proposed model for utilizing state resources to develop sickle cell disease surveillance across the lifespan is presented. This surveillance process should help evaluate the burden of sickle cell disease across the lifespan, and it could be used as a model for other hemoglobinopathies as well as other newborn screening disorders. Through the continued assessment and monitoring of prevalence, comorbidities, service utilization, cost, and patient outcomes, the newborn screening follow-up program will be able to inform public health policy.