The role of the pediatrician in hearing loss. From detection to connection.

The advocacy by pediatricians is imperative if early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) programs are to be effective, efficient, and successful over the long term. Some pediatricians remain unfamiliar with the rationale for universal screening of all newborns prior to hospital discharge. Pediatricians' questions regarding universal screening are data- and quality-driven. Discussion of the components of the EHDI program, answers to pediatricians' most frequently asked questions, supported by data, and the quality indicators used to monitor EHDI programs in Texas are provided.