National Survey Assessment of the United States’ Pediatric Residents’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Newborn Screening

Abstract

A pediatrician’s approach to newborn screening (NBS) impacts patient care. Some physicians have reported not being well prepared to inform families about a positive NBS and recommend further follow-up. The knowledge and approach of categorical pediatric residents (RES) in the United States regarding NBS is not known. They were anonymously surveyed via listserv maintained by American Academy of Pediatrics. A total of 655 responses were analyzed. The mean composite knowledge score (CKS) was 17.7 (SD 1.8), out of maximum 21. Training level (p = 0.001) and completing NICU rotation (p < 0.001) predicted higher CKS. Most RES agreed that NBS is useful and pediatricians play an important role in the NBS process, however, only 62% were comfortable with counseling. Higher level RES were more likely to follow NBS results in clinic (p = 0.0027) and know the contact agency for results (p < 0.001). Most RES wanted more NBS training during residency and were not aware of clinical algorithms like ACTion sheets developed by American College of Medical Genetics. We concluded that although RES have sufficient knowledge about NBS, there is a need for earlier RES education on available tools for NBS to enhance their comfort level and improve practices such as educating parents about the NBS process.