Pediatric Provider Insight Into Newborn Screening for Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a major contributor to neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, yet newborn screening for this disorder in the United States is not standard practice. We surveyed pediatric providers regarding a novel newborn G6PD screening program successfully implemented in 2007 at a US urban women's hospital newborn nursery. STUDY DESIGN: An electronic survey was distributed to 472 pediatric providers addressing extent to which they were influenced by the screening program. RESULTS: Ninety-two (20%) providers responded, of whom 74 (80%) had taken care of G6PD-deficient patients diagnosed by the screening program. A majority found the diagnosis helpful for patient management and influential in their management. Most common changes in management included more counseling on jaundice and follow-up and avoidance of hemolytic crisis triggers. CONCLUSIONS: General pediatric providers support newborn G6PD screening and appreciate the current program. Knowing the G6PD deficiency status of newborns informed and influenced pediatric providers' care.