Early Hearing Detection and Intervention
In this section, you can:
- Learn about evidence supporting early identification of hearing loss and its positive impact on children and families and get resource information to share with your patients
Why is this Important?
Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs across the country significantly lower the age of identifying hearing loss in young children. These efforts give children with hearing loss an opportunity to learn and grow at the same rate as all children. Indiana strives to screen all babies for hearing loss prior to 1 month of age; diagnose babies with hearing loss prior to 3 months of age; and ensure enrollment in early intervention services prior to 6 months of age. In 1993, the average age of identification for children born in the U.S. was 2 ½ years. In 2006, Indiana’s average age was about 5 months.
Role of IPN
In 1999, IPN spearheaded efforts to pass HEA 1410, which established the statewide newborn hearing screening program.
IPN also collaborates with the Indiana State Dept of Health to “get the word out” about the benefits of early identification of hearing loss through sharing information with a broad range of perinatal healthcare providers throughout the state.
For more information, contact Gayla Hutsell Guignard at 888.815.0006 or ghutsell@isdh.in.gov
Other Helpful Links
- Centers for Disease Contraol EHDI Program
- Boys Town National Research Hospital
- National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management
Click here to see what we are telling Mothers and Families.
External websites posted for informational purposes only. IPN does not endorse or assume responsibility for their content.