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The primary objective of the Newborn Developmental Risk Screen is to coordinate an infant risk screening system that:

1. identifies newborns who are at greater risk for developmental disability or delay; and
2. links these infants with early intervention services for developmental testing, interventions appropriate to the child’s needs, and case management during the first three years of life.

A newborn’s risk status is determined by the "Yes" or "No" response recorded for two conditions that are accepted biologic risk factors for developmental delay and/or one of twenty-one congenital abnormalities. These risk factors include:

Biologic Risk Factors:

1. Birth weight less than 1200 grams, or 2 pounds 11 ounces

2. 5 minute APGAR of 3 or less

Congenital abnormalities:

1. Selected chromosomal abnormalities as listed on the back of the form;

2. Selected neurologic conditions as listed on the back of the form; and/or

3. Selected birth defects as listed on the back of the form.

Any one of these factors identifies an infant who is at greater risk for developmental delay.

When it is determined that an infant is at risk, the parents are informed and the developmental risk status is communicated to the infant’s primary pediatric provider. The infant is also referred to a Birth to Three (Early Intervention) Program that serves families located in the infant’s home county. A team (including the family and a variety of developmental specialists) assesses the needs of the infant and family and, together with the family, decides what services best meet the child’s needs. An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed.