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Updates on Newborn Hearing Screening
Most CPMs are very aware of the importance of the Newborn Metabolic Screening that is now routine in all states. Many CPMs participate in the Newborn Metabolic Screening Program in the state(s) where they practice. 
A newer program, Newborn Hearing Screening, may be less familiar. Approximately 1 in 350 infants has enough hearing loss to affect their ability to develop language. In 2000 the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) recommended universal screening of all newborns for hearing loss before hospital discharge. A national program, The Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program, was begun to implement the recommendations of JCIH. This program developed the following goals for Newborn Hearing Screening: - All newborns will be screened for hearing loss no later than 1 month of age, preferably before hospital discharge.
- Those not passing screening should have a comprehensive audiologic evaluation no later than 3 months of age.
- All infants identified with hearing loss will receive appropriate early intervention services no later than 6 months of age.
Every state now has an EHDI program. All states recommend newborn hearing screening, and some states mandate it. A growing number of states have programs that address hearing screening in out-of-hospital births. You can attain more information about the hearing screening program in the state(s) where you practice through contact with the EHDI coordinator. They can be found by clicking here. Since CPMs are a part of the maternity care system, it is important that the families cared for by CPMs are offered the opportunity to participate in any screenings that are considered the current standard of care for newborns. The following websites have additional information about hearing screening: Newborn Hearing Screening: The Great Omission Newborn Hearing Screening Important for Development (from the CDC) Newborn Hearing Screening - NCHAM Selecting Newborn Hearing Screening Equipment Newborn & Infant Hearing Screening Equipment Manufacturers | 
