Urgences QC
How to get it
1
Nothing to book. A nurse or midwife does it at the hospital or birthing centre.
2
It is voluntary. If you do not want it, say so before the blood is taken.
3
If results are normal, nobody calls you. If something is abnormal, you are called in about 1 to 2 weeks.
4
Born outside Quebec? Ask a doctor for a prescription as soon as possible.
What to say
“Questions about results: call the CHU de Québec newborn screening line.
The details
Who it’s for
Offered to every baby born in Quebec. A few drops of blood from the heel check for rare diseases that are best treated early, such as cystic fibrosis, congenital hypothyroidism, sickle cell disease and spinal muscular atrophy.
How often
Once, 24 to 48 hours after birth. Since April 28, 2025, there is no more urine test on blotting paper in the diaper.
Cost
Free for all newborns in Quebec. Babies born outside Quebec who are covered by the RAMQ can also get it free, with a doctor’s prescription.