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Making the decision to purchase new newborn hearing screening equipment can be challenging! Buying new equipment is expensive, deciding which system is best for your needs can be hard to navigate, and of course, there is always a learning curve when it comes to using and training other professionals on how to use the new system. Below are three key considerations to determine whether it may be time to think about upgrading your equipment. There are also some resources to help you determine which screening system is right for your newborn hearing screening program.
Are You Experiencing Issues With Your Equipment?
If you are experiencing abnormally high refer rates (and troubleshooting your system ensures it is functioning properly) or if you are experiencing frequent technical difficulties or breakdowns with your equipment, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Is the Manufacturer Still Producing Your System?
If the manufacturer is no longer producing your system, they will stop creating replacement parts and will eventually stop providing customer support. This can make replacement parts and technical support harder to come by.
Are There Limitations with Your Current System?
Every newborn hearing screening system is different:
- Different technology (e.g. ABR, OAEs, or both).
- Different capabilities (e.g. capability for screening only or screening and diagnostic assessment).
- Different portability (e.g. operates using a power cord, rechargeable battery, or both).
- Different test times (how long it takes to complete a screen).
- Different memory (how many screening tests can be stored).
If you feel your equipment is not fulfilling your needs in more than one area, it may be time to consider a replacement.
For more detailed information about currently available newborn hearing screening information, including comparison charts describing the capabilities of currently available systems, check out the newborn hearing screening comparison table compiled by the EHDI National Technical Resource Center (NTRC) supported by The National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM) at Utah State University.
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