Factors Influencing Loss to Follow-up in Newborn Hearing Screening in a Tertiary Neonatal Unit
Korvani Prasanna Kumar, Ayesha Begum, Swapna Lingaldinna, Santhosh Kumar Kraleti
Abstract
Background: Early identification of congenital hearing loss in infants is possible through Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS) program. Infants who fail the initial hearing screening must be followed up to achieve the maximum benefits of this program. Identifying factors that influence loss to follow-up can help lay new health regulations, reform existing health policies, and effectively implement UNHS.
Aim: To study the factors responsible for loss to follow-up in newborn hearing screening
Materials and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary neonatal unit. Parents who did not attend follow-up hearing screening tests were contacted by phone, and the reasons for not attending the follow-up tests were enquired and recorded after taking verbal consent.
Results: Totally, 580 neonates were screened during the study period, of which 128 neonates were lost to follow-up. Parents of 100 neonates could be contacted on phone. The parental reasons for loss to follow-up were perceiving that their newborn’s hearing ability is good (59%), residing far away from the screening center (40%), and being unaware about the follow-ups (20%).
Conclusion: Universal Newborn Hearing Screening needs to be strengthened by improving the tracking systems, sending constant reminders for follow-ups, providing holistic care by integrating hearing screening along with immunization programs, and making hearing screening available at peripheral hospitals.
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