Freedom of Information Request: 0212 2019/20

1. Do you have a care pathway for expectant women who receive a screen positive result for Down syndrome?  If so, please provide a copy/link
2. When a pregnant woman receives a screen positive result for Down syndrome is she referred for counselling?  If so, to whom and when? The result is conveyed within 3 working days of receipt (ordinarily the same day) to the patient by the screening midwife. All women are offered a face-to-face appointment to discuss the result.

   Information is sent via email, following the telephone call, with further information regarding options and links to ARC. At face to face meeting patients are also signposted to Down Syndrome Association where appropriate.

3. What training does the staff providing counselling have appertaining to a) providing counselling & b) knowledge of Down syndrome? a) Both midwives who are responsible for the delivery of the service are very experienced / senior midwives. One has completed all three ARC training days. The other midwife is due to attend a full day ARC session in September and has recently completed the KCL genetic screening and counselling course. b) Their fundamental knowledge regarding Down Syndrome has been taken from NHS / FASP screening resources. They also utilise / signpost parents to Downs Syndrome Association information and would refer to a consultant neonatologist where appropriate if parents wanted specific medical advice regarding the spectrum of the condition. We are committed to developing the service and there are plans for counselling / genetic / ARC courses to be attended in the future by the screening team.