The Learning Center for the Deaf Audiology Clinic was recently certified as a Level 2 Department of Public Health (DPH) provider to offer newborn hearing screenings and follow-up testing. The clinic joins 22 other sites that are approved to perform these types of services in the state of Massachusetts.
"With this certification, we will be able to identify children with hearing loss sooner, as well as start them on a path to Early Intervention earlier, including access to sign language acquisition,” said clinic Director Lydia Colón, Au.D., CCC-A.
All newborns receive a hearing screening shortly after birth in a hospital. If the infant does not pass during the initial screening, additional testing is warranted and the family is encouraged to follow up with an audiology clinic or pediatrician, and given a referral.
The TLC Audiology Clinic will now start to welcome referrals for families who need additional diagnostic testing and consultation regarding the results of the infant’s hearing screening. The Clinic can also offer this screening to families who may have missed the initial opportunity to receive the test; for example, if a child was born at home or if the hearing screening was missed at the birth hospital.
The Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program supports families by providing screenings and identification of early hearing loss, as well as connecting them with services and support.
The clinic recently received $63,000 in Cycle 2 PAIPG grant funding to help support the purchase of diagnostic testing equipment. The equipment is expected to arrive at the clinic this month, and services are slated to begin after staff has had further training and instruction on the technology.
The Audiology Clinic serves the MetroWest community and beyond. During the pandemic, the clinic ensured the safety of its patients and the community by offering Telehealth and curbside services. The Clinic accepts most major insurances, including MssHealth, and is open for in-person appointments following appropriate health guidelines and protocols. The TLC outpatient Audiology Clinic is also a 2019 and 2020 Best of Best MetroWest winner.
For more information, call (508) 875-4559 or visit our Audiology Clinic web page.