The Health Ministry decided, Monday, to fund molecular "genetic chip" testing of fetal chromosomes where ultrasound detects a significant genetic defect if recommended by a geneticist. The ministry will fund the testing completely, at no cost to the mother.
The ministry has been funding prenatal tests(amniocentesisandchorionic villus sampling) for womenover 35oron the recommendation ofa geneticist for many years. Monday's decision reflects technological advances which increase the possibilities for diagnosis.