TEHDI refers to the
Texas Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program. The goals of the
program are to provide better
outcomes for Texas newborns and young children with hearing loss and their
families, through early hearing screening, appropriate hearing testing, and appropriate
care.
What is newborn hearing screening?
Newborn hearing
screening is a painless test done on your newborn to check his or her hearing. Every
baby should have a hearing screening completed within the first month (30 days)
of the baby’s life.
Why is it important that newborns get screened?
Babies learn
to communicate as soon as they are born. Babies may respond to noise by
startling or turning their heads toward the sound, but this doesn't mean they
can hear all the sounds around them. Detecting hearing loss early prevents
delays in speech and language and social skill development.
How is the screening done? Does it hurt? (No!)
A baby's hearing
is screened using Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR), Transient or
Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE), or both., Screening only takes a few minutes. You can stay with your baby while the
screening is done. Read more about AABR and OAE testing.
Where can my baby get a hearing screening?
Your newborn will get a hearing
screening at the birth facility. If the birth center does not do a hearing screening,
they will refer you to another facility to set up your baby’s
appointment.
How do I know do if my baby had a hearing
screening?
You should be given a
copy of the results before you and your baby leave the birth facility. Contact the birth facility to
find out if your baby was screened. Check discharge paperwork for hearing
screening results. If you have problems with the above, contact the TEHDI Program.
What if I deliver my baby at home?
Your baby can be screened by a local audiologist, a person
trained to test hearing. Your pediatrician will provide you with a referral. You
can find an audiologist using our pediatric service provider’s map.
How much does it cost?
Most private health insurance covers hearing screening and any
resulting testing until the infant is 24 months (about 2 years) of age. Contact
your health insurance provider or Medicaid / TexCare Children’s
Medicaid (CHIP) for eligibility requirements and
enrollment instructions.
What if my baby does not pass the screening?
A “Did Not Pass” means the baby
needs another screening. A follow-up appointment must be completed as soon as possible, preferably within the first
month (30 days) of the baby’s life. If the baby does not pass again, then
further testing will need to be done to find out the cause.
Where can I get more information?
Read our Next Steps in Newborn Hearing
Screening page to
learn more about the next steps if your baby does not pass the hearing
screenings for more information.