Newborn Hearing Evaluation Program

PEI’s Newborn Hearing Evaluation program helps identify babies with hearing loss as early as possible. We are committed to the early identification and intervention of hearing loss, because early access to sound is critical for the auditory part of the brain to fully develop.

Started by PEI, the statewide universal newborn hearing screening program is now mandated for all New Mexico babies born in hospitals. Usually, newborns are tested in the hospital within 24-48 hours of birth. This program has made early detection possible for most children in New Mexico.

To diagnose hearing loss in an infant, an auditory brain stem response (ABR) test is used. This non-invasive measurement uses earphones to present sounds and electrodes to monitor the brain stem's response to sound. Babies who are screened and recommended for follow-up diagnosis have the option of working with Presbyterian Ear Institute through our Newborn Hearing Evaluation Program.

PEI provides diagnostic services to:

• Babies who didn’t pass the newborn hearing screening at the hospital
• Babies who were exposed to medicine that harms the ears
• Babies who have a family history of hearing loss

PEI understands how hard it can be as a parent to hear that your precious child has a hearing loss. When an infant is diagnosed with hearing loss, PEI provides families with information on treatment options, schedules a follow-up appointment with PEI’s Parent-Infant Coordinator and walks with families every step of the way on their journey to hearing and speaking.