Providers’ Attitudes to Proposed Changes in the Critical Congenital Heart Disease Screening Algorithm

Abstract

Screening for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) in newborns based on a 2009 Swedish study has become the standard of care despite the complexity of the algorithm. A simplified algorithm which might increase the false-positive rate was proposed in 2020 but not formally endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. We sought to determine how the current protocol and the proposed changes are perceived by clinicians. We performed an anonymous survey of professionals involved in the care of newborns regarding their perception of the current and proposed CCHD screening algorithms. 335 responses were evaluated. Less than 2% of respondents were dissatisfied with the existing screening algorithm or felt it was difficult to perform. 47% endorsed and 12% opposed the adoption of the proposed modifications with those most familiar with the proposed changes more likely to endorse them. Although many providers would accept a higher false-positive rate in CCHD screening, those who would have to transfer a baby from the birth site for assessment after a failed CCHD screening were less tolerant of an increased false-positive rate. Although the existing CCHD screening mechanisms appear to be very well received, the proposed changes to the CCHD algorithm were viewed positively by many respondents. Changes in this algorithm would likely be better tolerated in those setting where the consequences of a failed CCHD screening are more easily addressed.