Comparative Analysis of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Programs in Malaysia, China and Philippines

Abstract

Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program (UNHS) has developed
rapidly and tremendously in the world, but developing countries need
contextual models for UNHS to optimize screening outcomes and costeffectiveness.
Therefore, this study aims to document current UNHS practices
in three developing countries; Malaysia, Philippines and China with the aim
of comparing the reported practices to bring about some recommendations.
Based on the comprehensive review of reports, published research, and other
relevant materials, it is found that UHNS practices in the selected countries
(Philippine, Malaysia, and China) have commonalities and differences.
Newborn hearing screening is made binding on all caregivers in Philippine,
whereas it is just recommended in Malaysia and China. Nevertheless, the
protocols of UNHS program applied in the selected countries are similar. In
the selected countries, the protocol involves OAE and AABR. Also, UNHS
has been well instituted in the selected countries, but certain challenges
(e.g. poor follow-up) are debilitating the effectiveness of the screening in
the selected countries, and the challenges should be well addressed and
empirically studied. Furthermore, stakeholders could possibly benefit from
the findings of this study and recognize the need to optimize the UNHS
program through suggested factors. This study has hopefully contributed
towards the enrichment of the relevant literature, and it could serve as a
useful guide for stakeholders with regards to improvement of UNHS program
in their respective countries.