Tele-ABR using a satellite connection in a mobile van for newborn hearing testing

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Telemedicine
• Pediatric Health

Background:

• Newborn hearing screening is crucial for early detection of hearing loss.
• Traditional ABR testing requires specialized equipment and personnel, limiting access in remote areas.
• Mobile health units offer potential solutions for extending healthcare services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of conducting Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing in a mobile van setting.
• To assess the accuracy and reliability of tele-ABR measurements compared to traditional face-to-face ABR.
• To determine the effectiveness of trained health workers in assisting remote ABR procedures.

Main Methods:

• A mobile van equipped with satellite connectivity was utilized for ABR testing.
• Trained village health workers facilitated patient preparation and assisted an off-site audiologist.
• Videoconferencing enabled real-time monitoring and guidance during ABR recordings.
• 24 newborns (8-30 days old) underwent both face-to-face and tele-ABR testing for comparison.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in peak V latency between tele-ABR and face-to-face ABR measurements across three intensity levels.
• Bland-Altman analysis indicated good agreement between the two testing methods, with minimal bias.
• The study demonstrated the successful application of telemedicine for ABR in a mobile unit.

Conclusions:

• Tele-ABR testing is a feasible and reliable method for newborn hearing screening in mobile units.
• Satellite connectivity and trained health workers can effectively support remote audiological assessments.
• This approach can improve access to hearing screening for infants in underserved or remote populations.