This is testing newborn babies for early signs of many disorders for which early intervention or treatment is available. Early detection of these conditions before the baby becomes symptomatic can reduce the risk of severe illness, disability or death and allow for earlier monitoring and treatment, resulting in better health outcomes for most babies.

The best time to do the test is at 2-3 days of age although up to 7 days of age is acceptable. A heel prick blood specimen is taken and placed on a special filter paper card. The heel prick is a minor procedure that causes minimal discomfort.

For further information, please contact your preferred Laboratory:

LANCET
www.lancet.co.za

Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga & North West

Customer Call Centre:   0861 LANCET / 0861 526 238 (24 hours)

PATHCARE
www.pathcare.co.za

National (except Gauteng & KZN) and Namibia

Main Reference Laboratory:    021 5963400 (24 hours)
Client Services:    021 5963800 (Mon – Fri 08h00 – 17h00)
Email:    clients@pathcare.co.za