Neonatal Pulse Oximetry Screening

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common birth defects in the world. One out of every one hundred births has CHD. Twenty-five percent of these patients have what is called a critical congenital heart defect (CCHD). Patients born with CCHD require surgical intervention within the first year of life. Limited access to diagnostic equipment makes it difficult to diagnose a patient with CCHD before it is too late. 

Neonatal pulse oximetry screening is a simple, non-invasive test to detect critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) in newborns. Some babies with CCHD may appear healthy at birth, as signs like cyanosis (low blood oxygen) are not always visible to the naked eye. This screening uses a neonatal pulse oximeter to measure the baby’s oxygen saturation (SpO₂), providing insight into how well the heart and lungs function.

Abnormal blood oxygen levels can be an early indicator of CCHD. By identifying these cases before symptoms develop, pulse oximetry can help save lives through timely diagnosis and intervention.

Beyond individual diagnosis, pulse oximetry screening supports better healthcare system planning, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It helps prioritize care, manage limited resources, and guide triage efforts with limited clinical infrastructure.

Envision MedTech's Neonatal Pulse Oximetry Access Initiative aims to enhance early detection of Critical Congenital Heart Defects (CCHD) and other potentially fatal neonatal respiratory and cardiac conditions, particularly in underserved and low-resource healthcare environments.  

This is a globally standardized initiative but locally adaptable screening model that supports early intervention, public health reform, and sustainable pediatric care delivery in low—and middle-income regions.

Honduras has high neonatal mortality rates and limited access to early diagnostic tools. Many healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas, lack the resources to detect life-threatening conditions like CCHD. Early screening with pulse oximetry can bridge this gap and enable timely, life-saving interventions.

Thailand has strong pediatric cardiac care capabilities, but regional disparities mean many newborns in rural or underserved areas are not diagnosed in time. Pulse oximetry screening can help identify at-risk infants early and connect them to specialized care available within the country.