§ 22 §8822 — Program requirements

Maine § 22 §8822

• Jurisdiction: Maine
• Title 22: HEALTH AND WELFARE
• Part 3: DRUG ABUSE
• Ch. 1686: NEWBORN HEARING PROGRAM

Text

1.
Definitions.
As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings.
2.
Information to parents of children born in hospitals.
Beginning November 1, 2000, a hospital shall provide information to the parents of children born in the hospital regarding the importance of screening the hearing of newborns and of receiving follow-up care. The information must explain the process of hearing screening, the likelihood of a child having a hearing loss, follow-up procedures and community resources and must include a description of the normal auditory, speech and language development process in children. The hospital must provide information about hearing screening that may be provided at the hospital or coordinated, scheduled or arranged for by the hospital. The program must provide this information prior to discharge from the birth admission to the hospital or within 3 months of discharge.
3.
Information to parents of children born outside of hospitals.
By November 1, 2002, when a newborn is delivered in a facility other than a hospital, the department shall provide information to the parents on the merits of having the hearing screening performed and on the availability of the hearing screening within 3 months of the date of birth.
4.
Guidelines for services for children with hearing loss and at-risk children.
The department, after consultation with the board, shall establish guidelines for the provision of follow-up services for newborn children in the State who are identified as having or being at risk of developing hearing loss. These services must include, but are not limited to, diagnostic audiologic assessment, counseling and educational services for the parents and an explanation of the potential effects of the identified hearing loss on the development of the newborn's speech, language and cognitive skills as well as the potential benefits of early identification and use of spoken or sign language.
4-A.
Follow-up appointment with an audiologist.
Upon the approval of a parent or legal guardian of a newborn who is screened and receives a screening result of "refer," the birthing hospital, birthing center, hospital or other medical facility in which the child was screened must schedule the newborn for a follow-up appointment with an audiologist. That follow-up appointment must be scheduled prior to discharge, when possible. The hospital, center or facility must notify the newborn's primary care provider in writing of the screening result and audiologist appointment. This notice must be prepared prior to discharge, when possible.
5.
Reporting.
Beginning January 1, 2003, every hospital and other location providing birthing services shall report annually to the department concerning the following:
6.
Application.
The requirements of this section apply to all hospitals licensed under this Title and to other locations providing birthing services.

Legislative History

PL 1999, c. 647, §2 (NEW). PL 2007, c. 646, §1 (AMD).