The APGAR score is a method to quickly evaluate the health of newborn babies. It was created in 1952 by Dr. Virginia Apgar and assesses babies on five criteria: appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration. Scores are given from 0-2 on each criteria with higher scores indicating better health. APGAR scores are determined at one and five minutes after birth to evaluate how well babies are adapting outside the womb. While it is a useful guide, the APGAR score alone does not predict long-term health issues and should not be used to diagnose asphyxia without other evidence.