Newborn screening kits with a nine-digit serial number beginning with 20 (e.g. TX 20-XXXXXXX) will expire on Dec. 31, and physicians are encouraged to use the kits on time and ensure their stock is up to date after the end of the month.
TX 20 kits used to collect specimens after Dec. 31 will be rejected for testing, and the specimens will need to be recollected.
Newborn screening is required by statute for all newborns in Texas. As of 2020, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) laboratory screens for 54 conditions using the blood samples.
Physicians can order new kits from DSHS by downloading the order form for newborn screening supplies or by contacting the Container Preparation Group at 1-888-963-7111 ext. 7661 (512-776-7661). DSHS recommends completing the order form by specifying the total number of kits needed by each facility.
In addition, the DSHS Laboratory Services Section (LSS) has proposed a roughly $3.00 increase per kit to take effect in spring 2023, for a total cost of $66.73.
The proposed price increase would offset testing costs, such as changes in sample volume, laboratory supplies, and various procedural and technological changes that “allow Texas to keep pace with public health lab testing standards,” states the DSHS website.
Under Medicaid, which covers about 50% of births in Texas, newborn screening costs are covered at no cost to physicians.
The proposed fee changes will be posted to the DSHS website 90 days in advance of the effective date. The current Austin and South Texas DSHS Laboratory fee schedules are available on the DSHS website.
Physicians are encouraged to stay up to date on newborn screening notices. The Texas Medical Association also offers physicians a comprehensive resource for newborn screening information, including possible fee changes which may take effect in 2023.
Last Updated On
December 08, 2022
Originally Published On
December 08, 2022
Alisa Pierce
Reporter, Division of Communications and Marketing
(512) 370-1469