Last Updated: January 2023

Author: Vermont Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program, Vermont Department of Health

We expect fluctuations to this indicator as a result of late identification of hearing loss, complicating middle ear fluid, and some families who may choose not to participate in early intervention services. VTEHDI has been actively involved with quality improvement initiatives with external stakeholders including our early intervention provider and family based organizations to improve the number of infants who receive early intervention by 6 months of age.

The Vermont Department of Health, Division of Maternal and Child Health oversees the Vermont Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program (VTEHDI). A diagnosis of hearing loss requires quick and appropriate intervention measures within 6 months of age. These include rehabilitative audiological services and amplification/cochlear implantation when appropriate. A referral for early intervention services is also recommended to focus upon the language and literacy skills that are so critical during early childhood development.Nine East Network, Vermont's single point of entry for early intervention services and VTEHDI collaborate to ensure that all families of newly identified infants are offered early intervention services.

The  COVID-19 Pandemic and the cyberattack at the University of Vermont Medical Center (Vermont's largest birthing center) impacted the 2020 and 2021 newborn hearing screening and follow up data and reporting.  Hospitals and Audiology Clinics closed for outpatient re-screenings at the beginning of the pandemic and again during the unprecedented cyberattack. Additionally, the VTEHDI staff were deployed to the Vermont Department of Health Emergency Team impacting day to day operations. Early intervention services moved from in person to virtual creating challenges for providers and families. The Journal of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention recently published journal discusses the impact of COVID 19 on Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Programs nationwide for states and territories.

This indicator is part of Healthy Vermonters 2020 which documents the health status of Vermonters at the start of the decade and the population health indicators and goals that will guide the work of public health through 2020.

• Early intervention providers
• Primary care providers
• Audiologists
• Families

The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) has outlined best practice and national standards for the screening, identification and rehabilitation of children with hearing loss in the position paper. This committee within the American Academy of Pediatrics aims to ensure the proper development of language and literacy for children who are diagnosed as deaf or hard of hearing. The VTEHDI program recognizes these important milestones and provides support to families as they transition to early intervention services.

Our program currently care manages all infants who have been diagnosed with a permanent hearing loss. We collaborate closely with our external partners to ensure timely entrance into early intervention services.

Data is updated as it becomes available and timing may vary by data source.