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Newborn hearing screening in Hawaii
J L Johnson1, N L Kuntz, C C Sia
1National Center for Hearing Assessment & Management, Utah State University, USA.
Hawaii Medical Journal
|February 3, 1998
Summary
Hawaii leads the nation in universal newborn hearing screening, ensuring over 95% of infants are screened. This integrated program effectively identifies and supports infants with hearing loss, leading to positive developmental outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Audiology
Background:
- Hawaii pioneered universal newborn hearing screening, achieving national leadership.
- The state operates a statewide program screening 95% of all newborns.
Observation:
- Hawaii's program exemplifies an integrated service system for infants and toddlers with hearing loss.
- The screening process demonstrates high accuracy, with no missed or misdiagnosed cases of hearing loss.
Findings:
- Children identified through newborn hearing screening are successfully transitioning from early intervention.
- Many children achieve age-appropriate developmental and communication skills post-intervention.
Implications:
- Hawaii's model demonstrates the effectiveness of comprehensive newborn hearing screening and early intervention.
- Collaboration among legislators, healthcare providers, and state personnel is crucial for program success.