Congenital defect tests now free for expat babies

Secondary testing for new-born babies suspected to have congenital defects will now be offered free of charge to expatriates also, according to a senior doctor with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) While initial screening of all new-born in Dubai hospitals is free, secondary tests required when a doctor suspects any abnormality ranges from upwards of Dh500, the doctor said. This facility was earlier only free for Emiratis. Dr. Hisham Al Khatib, specialist paediatrician in the public health department of the DHA, said some expatriate parents could not afford the tests and ignored them. "The baby will not show symptoms in the early stages, but congenital abnormalities show up later," he said. "Many parents are unaware what can happen to their baby if the test is ignored." from/ Gulf News