Although it may seem like a negative outcome when a child does not pass a hearing screening, the "refer" result is actually an opportunity to engage in a process that can have a positive impact on a child's life.  The quality of a screening program cannot be measured simply b y the number of children who pass; it is more accurately reflected in the number of children whose previously unrecogniz ed hearing health needs a re identified and met.

 

The critical key is the follow-up that happens AFTER the screening procedure.  

By adhering to a well-designed OAE or Pure Tone screening protocol, the actions you take can have a significant positive impact on a child's life by helping to identify:

• Fluctuating (temporary) outer or middle ear conditions.  Although the primary purpose of screening is to identify permanent hearing loss, the process can also alert providers to chronic conditions that need attention. By making a prompt referral to a health care provider when children refer from screening, many of these conditions can be diagnosed and resolved. Even temporary conditions can affect a child's ability to hear and cooperate with instructions, especially in noisy environments. If left unresolved over time, they can also negatively affect language learning. 

• Permanent hearing loss, usually associated with the cochlea (inner ear). By rescreening children AFTER a health care provider has resolved any temporary conditions, and by making a referral to a pediatric audiologist when children still do not pass, a permanent loss can be diagnosed and intervention begun. Approximately 3 children per thousand are born with a permanent hearing loss and an additional 2 - 3 per thousand will lose their hearing during early childhood. Early diagnosis and intervention will make a world of difference in their lives.