Welcome to the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program

Undetected hearing loss is a developmental emergency, but we are here to help by connecting you to the resources to help understand this process and make informed decisions as a parent or provider. Together, we can ensure that every child receives the care and support they need in a timely manner.

Hearing loss is one of the most common major birth conditions.  Hearing loss can affect a child’s ability to develop speech, language and social skills.  If identification does not happen until after six months of age, on average the child’s language skills at age 3 will be about half of a child with normal hearing.  Iowa’s Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program works to ensure that all newborns and toddlers with hearing loss are identified as early as possible and provided with timely and appropriate audiological, educational  and medical services, as well as family support.  Whether you are a parent or a professional, this site is designed to serve as a guide to learn more about newborn hearing screening, diagnosis of hearing loss and resources available to assist children and families in Iowa. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about hearing loss and your role in its detection and support.

*For CoronaVirus or COVID-19 information, please visit* 

https://idph.iowa.gov/emerging-health-issues/novel-coronavirus

https://idph.iowa.gov/Health-Equity/COVID-19-Resources-for-Underserved-Populations

For parents, for hearing testing and follow up, here are tips on how to keep you, your baby, and your provider safe during COVID-19 and Emerging Solutions: How to Keep You, Your Baby, and Your Provider Safe During COVID-19.