SERVICE UPDATE:
Changes to referral criteria for Positive Prenatal Screen Results

In alignment with other provincial genetic centres, as of August 1, 2021 we will only be providing genetic consultation for pregnant individuals with a positive prenatal screen result who meet any one or more of the following criteria:

• have ≥ 1 in 20 risk for Down syndrome or trisomy 18,
• are screen positive for both Down syndrome AND trisomy 18,
• are midwifery clients,
• have a twin gestation,
• have a nuchal translucency measurement of ≥ 3.5 mm

In addition, we will not be providing genetic consultation when Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) has been ordered and results are pending or when NIPT has been completed and shows a low risk of fetal aneuploidy. We will continue to accept referrals for failed, high risk or inconclusive NIPT results.

Pregnant individuals who have a positive prenatal screen result are eligible for the following investigations which can be arranged through your office:

• NIPT (MOH funded for patients with a valid health card, self-pay option otherwise): please refer to Lifelabs Genetics (www.lifelabsgenetics.com) or Dynacare (www.gamma-dynacare.com)
• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) if patient < 14 weeks gestation and FTS is screen positive for Down syndrome (CVS not suggested for FTS positive for trisomy 18): referrals can be sent to the Prenatal Diagnosis and Medical Genetics Program at Mount Sinai Hospital (www.mtsinai.on.ca/care/pdmg/referrals)
• Amniocentesis: please see our website for referral information www.trilliumhealthpartners.ca/patientservices/genetics

You might also refer to the Prenatal Screening Ontario website for additional information (www.prenatalscreeningontario.ca). If your patient proceeds with additional testing and the result raises further concern, we would be happy to accept a referral. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.