Newborn Hearing Screenings

Did you have a home birth or a birth at a birthing center?

The state of Florida requires all newborns are screened for hearing loss. 

What is a Newborn Hearing Screening?

A newborn hearing screening aids in identifying infants that have a hearing loss and is required for all infants within the first month of birth. Infants born in hospitals obtain this screening prior to leaving the hospital. Infants born at home, or a birthing center must schedule an appointment with an audiologist for their newborn hearing screening. 

Why is it important have my child's hearing tested at birth?

Infants and children use their hearing to develop speech and language skills. Hearing loss that is not detected at a young age can have a major impact on a child's life. It can affect your child’s language development. Furthermore, speech and language delays can impact your child’s academic, social and emotional development. Research has proven that the earlier a baby’s hearing loss is found, the more successful their outcomes will be due to early intervention. 

What type of test is performed?

OAEs (Otoacoustic emissions) will be performed at your infant's newborn hearing screening.  

What do the test results mean?

Pass

Pass results means hearing loss was not detected during the screening; however does not rule out future hearing problems. 

Fail

Fail results means that further testing is needed to confirm your child’s hearing ability. If your baby gets a Fail result, please do not be alarmed. This is only a screening, which means that more detailed information is needed to determine your baby’s hearing status.

Tips for your newborn's appointment

Having your newborn's hearing tested is fairly simple, however here's a few items to make sure things go smoothly. 

What to expect?

Having your newborn's hearing tested is fairly quick and simple 

Do we accept insurance?

Currently, we are not in network with any insurance plans at this time. 

Does my newborn have to be awake?

No. Your baby can sleep through the entire process because your baby needs to be quiet, calm, and still therefore, feeding your baby right before the appointment is a good idea.


 Schedule an appointment today