Is Informed Consent the Solution to the Challenges Associated with the Retention and Use of Residual Newborn Screening Dried Blood Samples?

This study will assess whether the Michigan Department of Community Health’s policy requiring parental consent for research use of residual newborn screening dried blood samples leads to the maintenance of a robust sample collection that supports population health-based research.

This study will determine whether Michigan's consent model for the use of these samples ensures: (1) the integrity of the state newborn screening program, (2) the maintenance of a robust sample collection that supports population-based research, and (3) informed decision-making by parents. The potential impact is far-reaching. These results will help inform the development of other state policies regarding this contentious issue.