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The evolution of early hearing detection and intervention programs in the United States
Karl R White1, Irene Forsman, John Eichwald
1National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM), Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-2880, USA. karl.white@usu.edu
Insights
Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs have improved infant hearing screening rates. However, challenges remain in audiology, data management, and early intervention services for children with congenital hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Audiology
Background:
- Congenital hearing loss identification and treatment in early infancy is a developing field.
- Federal initiatives support state-level Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs.
- National goals guide the development and implementation of these critical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of newborn hearing screening in the U.S.
- To summarize state legislation and regulations for universal newborn hearing screening.
- To assess the progress made towards national EHDI program goals.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of newborn hearing screening programs.
- Analysis of state legislation and regulations.
- Evaluation of progress against established national EHDI goals.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in screening infants before hospital discharge.
- Shortcomings identified in pediatric audiologist availability and data management systems.
- Gaps exist in program evaluation, quality assurance, early intervention, and medical home linkages.
Conclusions:
- While newborn hearing screening has advanced, comprehensive EHDI program implementation requires further development.
- Addressing systemic issues is crucial for effective early intervention and improved outcomes for children with hearing loss.
Abstract:
Identifying and treating children with congenital hearing loss during the first few months of life is a relatively new concept. To assist states in the development of statewide Early Hearing Detection and Intervention programs, the federal government provides grants and/or cooperative agreements to almost all states and has established "National Goals, Program Objectives and Performance Measures" to guide the development and implementation of those systems. This article reviews the history of newborn hearing screening programs in the United States, summarizes the content of legislation and regulations passed by states related to universal newborn hearing screening, and describes how well each National Goal has been addressed. Although substantial progress has been made in the percentage of infants screened for hearing loss before hospital discharge, significant improvement is needed with respect to the availability of pediatric audiologists, implementation of effective tracking and data management systems, program evaluation and quality assurance, availability of appropriate early intervention programs, and linkages with medical home providers.
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