Early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) programs are available worldwide to proactively address hearing health in infants and children. Along with universal hearing screening of newborns, a comprehensive and effective EHDI program also includes a complete hearing assessment to confirm the presence or absence of permanent hearing loss, intervention services including technology and language development, family support as well as monitoring and evaluation of the program using a database. Without all five components, access to timely and high-quality hearing health services for infants cannot be achieved. During this presentation, the results of the Canadian Infant Hearing Task Force’s most recent Report Card describing the status of EHDI programs across Canada are shared. Data were gathered through a country-wide survey, which are described. Results from this work revealed that, although there has been some improvement in certain provinces and territories, Canada continues to remain insufficient in offering comprehensive, accessible, and sustainable EHDI programs. Continued action from Canada’s governments, in addition to federal policy leadership, is needed to achieve sufficient and sustainable EHDI programs.
Learning Objectives
Participants in this presentation will be able to:
- describe the components of a comprehensive EHDI program;
- explain the status of EHDI programs across Canada; and
- discuss actions to improve access to infant hearing health services in provinces/territories.
Intended Audience
- Pre-School (0-4)
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