Concerns following the rapid implementation of first-line screening for aneuploidies by cell-free DNA analysis in the Belgian health care system.

The high performance of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) analysis of maternal blood in screening for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 in high- and low-risk pregnancies in now well established.1 In May 2017, our Minister of Public Health announced the reimbursement of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) as a first-line screening tool for all pregnant women in Belgium. Patients have to pay 8.68 € out of their pocket. The decision took effect on the 1st of July 2017. Prior to the above announcement, the National Advisory Committee on Bioethics was asked to give its opinion on ethical issues that NIPT could raise, notably in matters of informed consent and patient counseling. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.