"An Act relating to establishing a screening, tracking, and intervention program related to the hearing ability of newborns and infants; providing an exemption to licensure as an audiologist for certain persons performing hearing screening tests; relating to insurance coverage for newborn and infant hearing screening; and providing for an effective date."

With the discovery that a baby's brain develops more rapidly than previously believed, concern for identification of infant-hearing defects has achieved a new prominence.

Over thirty states (37) have passed legislation that provides universal newborn hearing screening. Several other states screen a significant portion of newborns. Approximately 10,000 babies are born in Alaska each year. Out of that number, thirty to forty of these newborns are likely to have some type of congenital hearing loss (Alaska data: 7 facilities reported in 2001, 5636 tested, 34 referred for diagnostic audio logic evaluations)

Even though many hospitals and clinics, within the state, screen high-risk or premature infants for hearing loss, about 50% of newborns with hearing loss are not identified.

Most newborns with congenital hearing loss who are not identified at birth will not be identified until 18 months or three years of age. By this time certain critical periods for language and cognitive development have passed. When hearing loss is not detected, it can result in lifelong delays in the development of language, and other cognitive skills. (apparently EED and/or school districts can provide what catch-up training costs the state if that's wanted at some point)

Since hearing loss is more common that any other birth defect and since it has a significant impact on cognitive development, infant screening should be a priority within the state.

This bill would insure that newborns are screened, and that a reporting and tracking system is implemented. (note: it's important that both happen - the tracking means families/kids aren't supposed to get left behind; helps track services and results). The Department of Health & Social Services would have the responsibility to effectively plan, establish, monitor, and evaluate both the screening availability and tracking/reporting system.

Last Updated: 04/05/2003

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