How does the hearing and heel prick screening work?

Heel prick screening

After registering the birth of your baby with the municipality, a neonatal heel prick screening will be conducted by the Public Health Service (GGD). During the test, a small drop of blood will be taken from your baby for testing. Essential information is drawn from the screening concerning several serious disorders. It is important to identify these disorders as soon as possible to limit the impact on the baby’s health. More information can be found at: RIVM

Heel prick
Hearing screening

Hearing screening

Your baby’s hearing will be tested shortly after birth. This screening is often combined with the neonatal heel prick and can be conducted by the Public Health Service (GGD) at your home. The test is painless and lasts no more than a few seconds. Results are read directly after completing the test. Good hearing is essential to the development of your baby’s language and communication. The sooner a hearing impairment is identified, the sooner your child can receive treatment. This will limit the impact on your child. More information can be found at: RIVM