Up-to-date quality survey and evaluation of neonatal screening programs in China

Abstract

Abstract Aims To thoroughly evaluate the quality of the entire process of neonatal screening (NBS) in China and compare it with existing reports worldwide. Methods We collected survey questionnaires from 54.4% (135/248) of NBS institutions in China and conducted on-site visits to 20 of these facilities to validate the data. The quality performance of the institutions was evaluated, and differences across various factors were analyzed. Key results were compared with data from developed countries. Results We analyzed surveys from 25 provinces. Merely 62.5% of the provinces had acceptable performance in neonatal screening. Institutions with limited staff were more prone to organizational management shortcomings. Institutions in provinces with a per capita GDP below 10,000 USD exhibited lower quality control levels than those with a per capita GDP between 10,000 and 15,000 USD. Obstetrics departments have a lower awareness of quality control compared to other blood collection facilities. The positive predictive values (PPV) of newborn screening tests in Germany and China were both suboptimal, with the German PPV significantly higher than the Chinese PPV. Conclusions Although neonatal screening in China is relatively balanced, it still lags behind that of developed countries. A nationwide, comprehensive quality control system for continuous enhancements in post-testing management, diagnosis, and treatment is imperative to ensure prompt diagnosis and intervention.