State Newborn Screening Interoperability Implementation Program

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is accepting applications for the fiscal year (FY) 2021 for the State Newborn Screening Interoperability Implementation Program. The purpose of this program is to support state newborn screening programs in the implementation of comprehensive data interoperability plans to ensure infants having or at risk for heritable disorders are provided with the appropriate screening, counseling, and/or health care services. Interoperability is defined as the ability of different information systems, devices and applications (‘systems’) to access, exchange, integrate, and cooperatively use data in a coordinated manner, within and across organizational, regional, and national boundaries, to provide timely and seamless portability of information and optimize the health of individuals and populations globally.

Per statute, eligible applicants include: (1) a state or a political subdivision of a state; (2) a consortium of two or more states or political subdivisions of states; (3) a territory;(4) a health facility or program operated by or pursuant to a contract with or grant from the Indian Health Service; or (5) any other entity with appropriate expertise in newborn screening, as determined by the Secretary. Per 42 U.S.C. § 201, the term "state" includes, in addition to the several states, only the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Domestic faith-based and community-based organizations, tribes, and tribal organizations are also eligible to apply.

Kim Morrison, MS

(301) 443-6672