By The Canadian Press

AHS offering free program to screen newborns for hearing loss

Feb 14, 2019 | 6:47 AM

EDMONTON – Alberta Health Services is now offering a test to screen newborns for permanent hearing loss.

The Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program checks babies before they turn one month old.

The government says the service will be freely offered at all 13 neonatal intensive care units, many community sites, and postpartum units at most busy hospitals.

The quick and pain-free test involves playing soft sounds into the child’s ears as they are sleeping or quiet.

Infants who do not pass the test will be sent for a specialized hearing test to rule out or confirm permanent hearing loss and determine its severity.

2024 Spring Rocket League Tournament

St. Patrick's Community School Esports team wins top spot in national tournament

1h ago

update

Mistrial declared in case against Red Deer massage therapist

6h ago

Rev it!

City of Red Deer offers free decibel reading event this Saturday

6h ago

Between 110 and 160 babies are born with permanent hearing loss every year in Alberta.

(The Canadian Press – CTV Edmonton)