The Colorado newborn hearing screening project, 1992-1999: on the threshold of effective population-based universal newborn hearing screening.

Objective: Although previous studies have documented the feasibility and benefits of universal newborn hearing screening in selected hospitals, none have reviewed the effectiveness of regionally mandated participation of large numbers of hospitals with variable levels of motivation to succeed. The purpose of this study was to measure hospital participation and overall screening success in a statewide program for universal newborn hearing screening and to track improvements in program establishment and outpatient follow-up over time.

Methods: Four Colorado hospitals began voluntarily performing hearing screening before hospital discharge on all newborns in 1992.