PURPOSE: This study estimates the total cost per newborn of delivering genomic newborn screening (gNBS) within the Genomics England led Generation Study. METHODS: A time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) approach was used to estimate gNBS costs from recruitment to confirmatory testing. Resource use data were obtained through document review, semi-structured interviews with study staff, and direct observation across six English National Health Service Trusts. Inputs were categorized as labor, consumables, or equipment, with unit costs sourced from published pay scales, catalogues, or literature. Equipment costs were annualized at a 3.5% discount rate. All costs were estimated in 2025 GBP from the healthcare provider perspective, including overheads and data storage. A one-way deterministic sensitivity analysis varied key cost parameters (±20%) and tested alternative delivery scenarios. RESULTS: gNBS costs £1,208 per newborn, with sequencing comprising 58% of total costs, mainly consumables. The cost reduced by 20% to £963 when excluding research-specific recruitment and consent activities to reflect delivery of gNBS as part of routine clinical care. CONCLUSION: This study provides an estimate of gNBS costs, highlighting sequencing as the main cost driver. Combined with evidence on outcomes and healthcare utilization, these findings will inform future cost-effectiveness analysis, supporting policy decisions regarding national implementation in England.
Vu et al. (Fri,) studied this question.