Hearing tests for newborns made mandatory nationwide

Kathmandu, Jan 26: The Ministry of Health and Population has approved a guideline for all health institutions with a mandatory provision to carry out hearing tests for children.

The Guideline on Hearing Screening for Neo-Natal-2081 BS was approved to compulsorily test hearing issues in infants. Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel issued the guideline, emphasizing the importance of timely tests and treatment in reducing this health concern.

As per the guideline, infants nationwide will undergo hearing tests shortly after birth in birthing centers. “We made this decision mandatory based on expert recommendations that timely treatment can significantly reduce hearing impairment in infants,” Minister Paudel said.

Ministry’s Spokesperson Prakash Budhathoki added that all hospitals and health centers with birthing facilities must ensure hearing tests for newborns. —RSS