Since hearing and cCMV testing are required, are there repercussions for parent refusal?
Section 383.145(3)(c), Florida Statutes allows the parent or legal guardian of the newborn to opt out of the hearing screening. Per Florida Guidelines for Newborn Hearing Screening, a parent who chooses to opt out of the hearing screen should be provided with educational materials regarding hearing loss and potential delays in speech and oral language milestones. Additionally, the parent must sign a document that confirms this choice, which is to be included in the child’s medical record. Finally, the hearing screen should be reported as a refusal to Florida Newborn Hearing Screening (NBHS) and Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program (EHDI).