Title: National Resource Center for Early Hearing Detection and Intervention

Project Director: Karl R. White, Ph.D., karl.white@usu.edu, (435) 797-3013
National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management, Utah State University

Problem: The importance of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs is widely recognized, and more than 90% of newborns in the U.S. are now screened for hearing loss. However, many babies who do not pass the screen are lost to follow up, and there are significant problems linking EHDI programs to diagnostic, early intervention, medical home, and family support activities.

Purpose: This National Resource Center (NRC) will assist state agencies and other federal and non-federal partners in the development and operation of sustainable statewide EHDI systems.

Goals and Objectives: Statewide EHDI systems will be created in which all infants (1) are screened for hearing loss, and those who do not pass the screening (2) receive diagnostic evaluations before 3 months of age and (3) are enrolled in early intervention programs where necessary before 6 months of age. Additional goals include (4) appropriate family support, (5) linkages with a medical home, (6) statewide EHDI data and tracking systems that are linked with other relevant public health data, and (7) disseminating information about EHDI to relevant constituencies.

Methodology: Gaps in the current system identified by State EHDI Coordinators, collaborators, and other EHDI experts will be addressed through technical assistance activities, including resource development, education and training, policy initiatives, and evidence-based data collection.

Coordination: Technical assistance activities will be coordinated and often jointly implemented with professional and advocacy organizations who serve children with hearing loss, State EHDI programs, and appropriate federal agencies.

Evaluation: Ongoing evaluation activities, including needs assessments, annual surveys of the status of EHDI programs in the U.S., and product and process evaluations, will be integrated into all technical assistance activities. A National Advisory Committee will regularly review the workscope and make suggestions for improvement.

Key Words: early hearing detection, newborn hearing screening, technical assistance, audiology, early intervention

Annotation: Effective early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) requires linking newborn hearing screening to diagnostic services, early intervention, family support, and medical homes. The National Resource Center for EHDI programs will use a National EHDI Assistance Network in collaboration with various professional and advocacy organizations to assist states in the implementation of effective and sustainable statewide EHDI programs.