Acceptance, Knowledge, and Experiences of Pediatric Hematologists in the Philippines on Newborn Screening for Hemoglobinopathies

Abstract

Background. Hemoglobinopathies as a group is one of the most common conditions confirmed through the newborn screening (NBS) program of the Philippines. This led to the increased participation of pediatric hematologists in the NBS program. Objective. The aim of the study was to assess newborn screening acceptance and knowledge of pediatric hematologists using an online questionnaire. Method. Members of the Philippine Society of Pediatric Hematology (PSPH), who are practicing pediatric hematologists in the Philippines, were invited to answer an online questionnaire. Results. Sixty members of the PSPH (65.2%) answered the survey. All the respondents are familiar with the newborn screening program. Fifty-seven respondents (95 %) have already managed a case of hemoglobinopathy identified through the newborn screening program. Differences in the approach to management and level of confidence with diagnostic test result interpretation have been noted. General themes of their concerns include being unaware of the protocol, concerns on delays in confirmatory tests, request for guidelines on follow-up, and incongruence of results with clinical picture. Conclusion. The information collected may be used to develop strategies to better equip our pediatric hematologists and assist the PSPH standardize management protocols for hemoglobinopathies.