Hearing Screening for Infants

All infants born in Ohio hospitals or birthing centers now receive hearing screenings before discharge. Technology allows for hearing to be checked at any age, including newborns. The methods used are safe, quick and effective. The hearing screening determines whether a more detailed evaluation of a baby’s hearing is needed.

If a more detailed hearing test is needed, the infant will need to be seen by an audiologist. The Pediatric Audiological Services Directory is a list of providers that can perform the specialized testing needed to assess hearing in very young children.

If in-depth testing by an audiologist shows a hearing loss or deafness, the child is eligible for specialized early intervention services provided by the Regional Infant Hearing Program in conjunction with Help Me Grow.

The Infant Hearing Program is located in the Bureau of Early Intervention Services at the Ohio Department of Health. Program staff includes public health audiologists that can be reached at the contact information below.

Mailing Address:
Ohio Department of Health
Infant Hearing Program, 5th Floor
246 North High Street
P.O. Box 118
Columbus, OH 43216-0118

Telephone: (614) 644-8389 or 800-755-GROW (4769)

E-mail: BEIS@odh.ohio.gov
 
Last Updated: 2/15/05

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