Partners across South Dakota are offering newborn hearing screening. By screening early, providers can help identify babies who may have hearing loss during the critical first weeks of life. Performing screenings has a positive impact on South Dakotans, especially new parents. One midwife expressed it perfectly:
"Being able to offer hearing screening in our client's home means one less thing on the new parents' to-do list. This means more time bonding at home with their new baby and less time running around to appointments."
— Abbie Paulson, CPM, Earthside Midwifery SD | Aberdeen
Hearing screenings, evaluations, and follow-up appointments are necessary at birth, before 3 months, before 6 months, and beyond.
Learn More About the Importance of NBHS Home Birth Information
Stay current with the latest from the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing and AAP EHDI:
Supporting Materials
If you are interested in becoming a newborn hearing screening partner, please contact:
South Dakota Department of Health Newborn Screening Program
1-800-738-2301
DOHNewbornScreening@state.sd.us
OAE Maico Ero-Scan Resources:
Some babies pass their newborn hearing screen but still have certain risk factors that could lead to hearing loss later on, such as time spent in the NICU or a family history of hearing issues. Below are easy-to-use conversation scripts to help partners feel confident discussing these follow-up needs with parents. These guides ensure families understand the importance of continued monitoring and know what steps to take next.
Resources:
Newborn hearing screening is just the first step; referrals are just as important. If a baby has an abnormal screen result, families must be able to have a timely follow-up.
Resources:
Newborn Screening Program Updates
South Dakota Medicaid Reimbursement Overview
For billing questions, please contact John Negley at 319-335-4442
Birth facilities and providers can order Newborn Screening educational materials under the "Family Health" category.
Before 1 Month of Age
Reviewing hearing screening guidance at birth and follow-up appointments.
Before 3 Months of Age
Review hearing evaluation guidance and newborn hearing loss risks.
Before 6 Months of Age
Review early intervention resources and provide appropriate referrals.
Resources
Order newborn screening educational materials, get tips, and access toolkits.
Contact Information
South Dakota Department of Health Newborn Screening Program
1-800-738-2301
DOHNewbornScreening@state.sd.us