Challenges and Strategies of Newborn Hearing Screening Programs Worldwide: A Scoping Review

Newborn hearing screening (NHS) programs are essential public health initiatives aimed at early detection of neonatal deafness, thereby reducing long-term developmental delays. However, resource limitations, including insufficient infrastructure, workforce shortages, and financial constraints, significantly hinder program effectiveness. This scoping review investigates the key challenges and strategies implemented across various global newborn hearing screening programs.

A systematic scoping review approach was employed, following established field review methodologies. Studies were retrieved from PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, INAHTA, Google Scholar, and regional academic databases using targeted search strategies tailored to each platform's protocol. Articles published between 2000/01/01 and 2024/01/30 were selected. Eligibility criteria and selection processes were defined to ensure comprehensiveness and study quality. Data extraction was conducted via a structured Excel 2013 form, systematically compiling general and specific study details.

Improving newborn hearing screening programs requires strategic collaboration between decision-makers, healthcare providers, and researchers. Effective planning demands: Expert-driven policy frameworks incorporating scientific recommendations; optimal resource allocation through pilot assessments and real-world evaluations; and strengthened monitoring mechanisms, ensuring high program efficiency.

Addressing structural and operational challenges through strategic policy frameworks and resource optimization can substantially enhance newborn hearing screening programs. Scalable interventions-such as expanded telehealth solutions, AI-driven diagnostics, and universal screening implementation-have the potential to increase early detection rates and improve healthcare outcomes for infants with hearing impairments and their families.