Key changes to the newborn hearing screening programme

The changes enable the implementation of quality improvements recommended for the UNHSEIP through review reports in 2013 and 2014.

One of the major changes is the introduction of a single type of equipment for all newborn hearing screening nationally. All screening is now performed using the Beraphone MB11 screening device.

The type of screening and number of steps has also changed. All DHBs have moved to automated auditory brainstem response (aABR) testing only, as is used in many overseas programmes.

There has also been a change in the policy for babies with risk factors for later onset or progressive hearing loss. The NSU, together with a panel of experts including audiologists, paediatricians and ear, nose and throat specialists, reviewed the list of risk factors for later onset or progressive hearing loss. 

Based on evidence from a number of programmes, the risk factors requiring referral to audiology for additional hearing surveillance have been more tightly defined and require clinical confirmation. As a stand-alone risk factor, a family history of hearing loss will no longer trigger an automatic audiology follow-up appointment.

The changes have been communicated to paediatricians, midwives and neonatal intensive care unit staff. Families who have already been referred under the discontinued risk factors will be given the option of keeping appointments. Audiologists now have more specific guidance on the expected timing and testing for different conditions (including babies with cleft palate and Down syndrome).

All parents are provided with a hearing checklist for babies that can assist with early identification of any delays in speech and language development. Each Well Child Tamariki Ora visit also includes questions about baby’s hearing. Parents are advised to talk to their doctor or Well Child provider if they have any concerns about their baby’s hearing.