Infant Screening and Testing Programs
Universal Newborn Hearing Screening
As many as 30 babies
are born in Alaska each year with hearing loss. That is why it is
important to test all newborn babies for hearing loss before they
leave the hospital. If your baby can’t hear well, he/she may
have problems learning to talk. If you find a hearing loss early,
your child will have the best chance to learn.
Universal
newborn hearing screening is a screen that will check if your baby’s
hearing is normal or whether more testing is needed. The screen does
not hurt, is quick and easy, and will be performed by a trained person.
If your birthing facility does not offer newborn hearing screening,
ask your health care provider to refer you to a place that does.
Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program
Alaska Newborn
Metabolic Screening Program Screens Alaska newborns for diseases that
are not apparent at birth. Very early treatment can prevent or reduce
physical effects and brain damage.
