As a neonatal health care professional, providing newborn hearing screening and intervening early is essential to determine if a baby is hard of hearing or even deaf.

Hearing screenings, evaluations, and follow-up appointments are necessary at birth, before 3 months, before 6 months, and beyond.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the United States welcomes thousands of babies who are deaf or hard of hearing every year. For these babies, the sooner intervention starts, the more likely they are to develop to their full potential and get the assistance they need. With the knowledge of their child’s hearing ability, families can make decisions about intervention services that help the child develop social and relevant language skills.


Contact the South Dakota Department of Health
Newborn Screening Program
at 1-800-738-2301 
dohnewbornscreening@state.sd.us