A Team in Detecting Hearing Loss
Each year, approximately 12,000 babies are born in the United States with permanent hearing loss. With 3 of every 1,000 newborns having hearing loss, it is the most frequently occurring birth defect. Additionally, another 2 to 3 per 1,000 children will acquire hearing loss after birth. Given the serious ramifications of late identification of hearing loss, Iowa legislature passed a law (Iowa Code section 135.131) which requires universal hearing screening of all newborns and infants in Iowa. Additionally, birth facilities, audiologists and other health care providers are required to report the results of a hearing screen, re-screen or diagnostic assessment for any child under 3 years of age to the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Working collaboratively, we can ensure that hearing loss is detected as soon as possible. From screening to continued maintenance of care, we all play an important role in ensuring the best possible outcomes for children in Iowa who are deaf or hard of hearing. As the program coordinators, we are here to ensure that you have the resources necessary for empowering and treating your patients.
Start by telling us who you are on the left and together we will explore your important role in detecting hearing loss and connecting families to early intervention and family support. Thank you for your work. You are a valued member of the Iowa EHDI Team. Together we will support children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families.
To help your patients find a diagnostic audiology center or get additional assistance, contact the Iowa Family Support Network.
Learn about EHDI best practices and access tools to help you meet these standards. Also includes current EHDI research articles.
These are materials that you can use to learn more about the importance of early hearing detection and intervention and share with your patients. There is also a newsletter to keep you informed about the happenings at the EHDI program, a parent fact sheet, a family resource guide and much more.
The EHDI database is the primary system through which EHDI program data is collected. If you have a need to access the database, or want to learn more about how to use the database, the information can be found here.
There are a variety of reporting and referral forms that are available for your use, including to Early ACCESS. Another set of forms that is available are the parent refusal documents.
EHDI operates under Iowa Code and Iowa Administrative Rules. Those documents can be accessed here.
Additional resources to explore with families:
