Towards equitable access and outcomes for tamariki and whanau within early childhood ear and hearing services in South Auckland

Abstract

Background: purpose of the study/ the study’s objectives Our previous research has shown an unmet need to identify and manage hearing loss and middle ear disease in young children in South Auckland. A large study of >450 “asymptomatic” pre-schoolers showed over 20% with hearing loss. Pasifika and Māori children were especially at risk. A proposal was made to bridge the gap between newborn hearing screening and the four-year-old ‘before school’ hearing screening by conducting three ear and hearing tests on 3-year-olds within early childhood centres. The purpose of the research is to help facilitate earlier detection of significant ear and hearing problems to enable timely treatment and improve hearing and developmental outcomes. Approach: the methods, framework or approach used Of the 61 children in the pilot study, 23 were referred for formal audiology and/or Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) review. The testing process in early childhood centres was efficient and feasible, but of the 23 children who were referred, 12 were lost to follow-up. A qualitative research study was undertaken to interview families of children who did not pass the hearing screening to learn more about the experiences of those whose children could attend audiology/ENT and those who did not receive follow-up services. Goals of this phase were to investigate barriers for families successfully navigating the current public health system. Results: a summary of the results or outcomes Preliminary data from the qualitative interviews will be presented. Families had a range of experiences, both positive and negative associated with their engagement with audiology and ENT services. A number of barriers to access were identified, including the location of the services and the challenges of the clinic being hospital-based. Conclusion: the significance of the findings or outcomes The next phase of this research will involve establishing a stake-holder group to discuss methods to identify and remove barriers to equitable hearing healthcare. Our group is committed to working alongside other Pasifika and Māori community-based groups in health equity, child health, and wellbeing.