No abstract

The performance of the neonatal screening programme was audited against clinical standards in the Bath clinical area from 1 April 1994 to 31 March 1996. The standards and policy were agreed by local service provider representatives of the screening and were audited, using laboratory and child health computer systems and medical records. Two annual reports were produced with recommendations for improvement communicated to representatives of the service. Thus the first audit loop has been completed.The audit shows that the coverage of the service is excellent, with all eligible babies being oVered screening; those with congenital hypothyroidism or phenylketonuria receive appropriate treatment by the 28 day standard. The process works extremely well, although areas for improvement have been identified, to increase the eYciency of the service.It is concluded that an eVective and eYcient audit cycle can be established, to monitor and improve the performance of the neonatal screening service. (Arch Dis Child 1997;77:F228-F234)