Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Hearing and Vision Screening for Children

Do all schools have to provide hearing and vision screening services?

According to the Section 3313.69 of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC), all schools with medical/nursing services are to include tests to determine the existence of hearing and vision defects in school children. Simply stated, this law requires all schools providing any type of medical/nursing services to provide hearing and vision screening services that meet ODH requirements.

How are hearing and vision screening requirements set?

Hearing and vision screening performed in schools must be conducted in accordance with mandates stated in the ORC. These mandates allow ODH to establish minimum, mandatory grade levels, methods and procedures for screening and follow-up.

The Ad Hoc Hearing and Vision Advisory Committees help set the requirements for hearing and vision screening in schools. The Ad Hoc Hearing and Vision Advisory Committees consist of otolaryngologists, pediatricians, ophthalmologists, optometrists, audiologists, speech-
language pathologists, nurses, Ohio Department of Education staff and 
ODH's staff. For more information about the advisory committees or to provide comments to the committee, please contact: BCFHS@odh.ohio.gov .
 

I am a school nurse, who can I contact for information on screening equipment?

The Hearing and Vision Screening program can recommend the proper screening equipment, contact the program at (614) 466-5332.

I am a school nurse, who can I contact for screening training?

Free screening trainings are offered by ODH throughout the year. Contact the Hearing and Vision Screening program at (614) 466-5332 for training and registration details.

My school does screening in different grades than what is mandated by ODH. What should I do?

The grade levels mandated by ODH are the minimum grades to be screened. You should contact your school principal.

If the school refers my child to a specialist, who do I contact?

The school nurse may provide you with a list of professionals to contact in your community. ODH can also supply a list of professionals in your area; contact the Hearing and Vision Screening program at (614) 466-5332 or e-mail BCFHS@odh.ohio.gov for more information.

My child failed the hearing screening. Do I need to see a doctor or an audiologist?

It is recommended that you contact your primary care doctor first. If necessary, the doctor will refer you to a specialist.

                                            

My child has an ear infection. Will that affect the hearing screening results?

Yes, ear infections may affect hearing test results. Let the school nurse know your child has an ear infection.