After the birth of your baby, you will be offered to have your baby's hearing screened. If your baby does not pass their hearing screening test, your baby will need to go for a more specialized hearing test.
This test is called a diagnostic ABR assessment and is used to rule out or confirm hearing loss.
With your consent, the health care provider who completed your baby' s hearing screening test will refer your baby for a diagnostic ABR assessment. Diagnostic ABR assessments are available across the province at select sites in larger city centers. The nearest AHS Audiology Service site will call you to make an appointment when they receive the referral.
The results of your baby's diagnostic ABR assessment and any follow up needed will be shared with you.
A diagnostic ABR assessment is safe and will not hurt your baby. Your baby's hearing is important for many areas of child and brain development. Hearing loss can delay your child's speech, learning and social skills.
A diagnostic ABR assessment is recommended when a baby is at least 4 weeks of age.
For more information, visit our website.