Florida’s Department of Health conducts screening tests on all newborns shortly after birth to detect certain genetic, metabolic, and endocrine disorders that may not be apparent at birth. Early detection through these required tests allows for prompt intervention and treatment, often preventing serious health problems or developmental delays.
Timely identification and management of these conditions are crucial for ensuring optimal child development and long-term health outcomes. Early intervention can significantly improve a child’s prognosis, often mitigating or even eliminating the potential for severe complications. This state-mandated public health program has evolved over decades, expanding the panel of screened conditions as scientific advancements and technologies improve diagnostic capabilities.