Updated Criteria for Publicly Funded NIPT for Chromosome Differences

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- Mar 30, 2026

PSO News

Prenatal Screening Ontario (PSO) is pleased to share important updates to the eligibility criteria for publicly funded Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) for chromosome differences (aneuploidies), effective March 30, 2026. 

Updated requisitions are now available!

Key Takeaways 

Updated eligibility for in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies based on oocyte age

Clearer guidance on referral to Genetics/Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) following an increased nuchal translucency (NT) measurement

Refinement of soft marker clinical criteria

IVF pregnancies – oocyte age 
Oocytes aged 39 years and over at retrieval are now eligible for publicly funded NIPT (previously 39 years, 3 months and over). 

For non-IVF singleton pregnancies, age criterion remains 40 years or older at the estimated due date. 
* All twin pregnancies are eligible for publicly funded NIPT.

Increased nuchal translucency (NT ≥ 3.5 mm) 
Remains a Category I criterion 

Prompt referral to Genetics and/or MFM is now highlighted as a recommendation regardless of NIPT order or result   

An NT ≥ 3.5 mm is not only associated with an increased risk of aneuploidy, but also with genetic conditions and fetal congenital anomalies not detected by NIPT. Prompt referral to a Genetics/MFM specialist is indicated to discuss the implications of an increased NT and explore all screening and diagnostic testing options. You do not need to order NIPT or wait for the result to initiate this referral. 

Refinement of soft markers (Require referral to Genetics/MFM centre) 

Eligible for publicly funded NIPT:

Isolated hypoplastic/absent nasal bone or

Isolated increased nuchal fold (≥ 6 mm)

Eligible for publicly funded NIPT (any two of the following) *: 

Aberrant right subclavian artery

Clinodactyly

Hyperechogenic bowel

Intracardiac echogenic focus/foci

Pyelectasis

Short femur

Short humerus

Ventriculomegaly

In isolation, these markers do not qualify for funded NIPT. 
* Regardless of pregnant individual’s a priori chance for having a pregnancy with trisomy 21 or Multiple Marker Screening result .

Removed from soft marker list: 

Choroid plexus cysts are no longer an indication for publicly funded NIPT

Implications for your practice

If hypoplastic/absent nasal bone or increased nuchal fold (≥6 mm):

 Offer referral to Genetics/MFM clinic for a discussion about further testing options, including publicly funded NIPT

If other types of soft markers are seen: 

Consult with Genetics/MFM clinic.

PSO acknowledges that some soft markers may be associated with conditions unrelated to common aneuploidies. Health-care providers are encouraged to consult their local genetics or MFM centre for specific referral criteria and management recommendations even if the pregnant individual does not appear to be eligible for publicly funded NIPT.

Rationale for Changes

These updates align with: 

Expert consensus from PSO’s Genetics Working Group

Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada guidance

Current literature on the impact of soft markers on the chance for chromosome differences

Resources and Next Steps

Updated requisitions are now available!

You may wish to print the Soft Marker Guide and the Office Guide to Prenatal Genetic Screening and have them on hand when you speak to pregnant individuals in your care.  

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Updated Criteria for Publicly Funded NIPT for Chromosome Differences

Updated Criteria for Publicly Funded NIPT for Chromosome Differences