Hearing Outreach Program

Vermont Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (VTEHDI)Program

As of June 2003, all Vermont birthing hospitals have been offering/providing hearing screenings for newborns admitted to their facility.  In addition to the screening results, hospitals provide the VTEHDI Program with high-risk factor information on each baby in relation to hearing loss later in infancy.

The VTEHDI Program employs a full-time audiologist to coordinate this program.  The audiologist ensures that all babies born in Vermont receive a hearing screening prior to hospital discharge, or as soon as possible as an outpatient.

Recommendations for additional follow-up are provided by the coordinator, as well as tracking babies who need additional testing.  Tracking continues for babies who are diagnosed with hearing impairment until the family is enrolled in a treatment program.

Hearing Outreach Program (HOP)

This program provides hearing screenings for newborns and infants state-wide.

Testing is done by American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certified Audiologists, using a simple and painless test that takes only a few minutes to complete.

HOP clinics are sponsored by Vermont hospitals, the Vermont Department of Health, and other community agencies.  

Clinic days, times, and frequency vary by location.  Call 1-800-537-0076 (VTTY) or 802-863-7326 for more information or to schedule an appointment.