Infant and Pediatric Hearing Services
The ability to hear well plays an important role in a child’s ability to develop speech and language skills. As a free service to our community, WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital screens all newborns for potential hearing issues.
Hearing Screening Results for Newborns
You’ll know the results of your baby’s test at the time of the screening. If your baby does not pass this initial test, we’ll attempt to repeat it before your baby goes home from the hospital or during your postpartum visit.
It is unlikely that your newborn has a hearing problem. However, if your baby does not pass the initial screening, we’ll refer you to one of our expert hearing specialists for additional testing.
Causes of Hearing Loss in Children
A newborn hearing screening is only the first step in monitoring your child's hearing and ear health. A baby with no sign of hearing issues soon after birth could later develop hearing problems due to:
- repeated ear infections
- serious illness
- a family history of hearing problems
If you’re concerned about your baby's hearing or your child’s speech and language development, please talk with your child’s pediatrician or your family doctor.