Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
05:40
Using an Automated Hirschberg Test App to Evaluate Ocular Alignment
Published on: March 24, 2020
17.4K
Inventory of current EU paediatric vision and hearing screening programmes.
Frea Sloot1, Hans L J Hoeve2, Marlou L A de Kroon3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands f.sloot@erasmusmc.nl.
Journal of Medical Screening
|March 7, 2015
Summary
European countries show significant variation in pediatric vision and hearing screening programs. Key differences exist in visual acuity charts, screening professions, hearing test referrals, and funding models.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Ophthalmology
- Audiology
Background:
- Paediatric vision and hearing impairments require early detection through screening programs.
- Variability in screening program design and implementation across Europe may impact effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine and compare the diversity of paediatric vision and hearing screening programmes across European nations.
Main Methods:
- A literature review identified key themes for comparison.
- Three questionnaires focused on vision, hearing, and public health screening were developed.
- Data were collected from ophthalmologists, orthoptists, otolaryngologists, and audiologists across 39 European countries.
Main Results:
- 35 countries have vision screening, 33 have neonatal hearing screening.
- Visual acuity testing frequency and age of first testing varied.
- Otoacoustic emission and auditory brainstem response were common initial hearing tests.
- Screening was primarily conducted by paediatricians, ophthalmologists, or nurses, with funding from health insurance or state.
Conclusions:
- Significant disparities were observed in visual acuity charts, professions involved in vision screening, hearing test referral criteria, and funding mechanisms.
- These variations highlight the need for standardization or at least greater understanding of diverse approaches in European paediatric screening.
