District Of Columbia § 7-852 - Newborn hearing screening programs.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 7-852 — Newborn hearing screening programs., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 7-852. Newborn hearing screening programs.
7-852Each hospital and maternity center in the District of Columbia shall establish a newborn hearing screening program to ensure that all newborns in the hospital or maternity center are screened for hearing impairment before discharge, subject to the limitations stated in subsection (d) of this section.
Each test shall be conducted by an audiologist, otolaryngologist, or other qualified person, in accordance with accepted medical practices.
The screening program shall consist of at least one of the following tests:
Auditory brain stem response;
Otoacustic emissions; or
Other appropriate nationally recognized, objective physiological screening test.
Each hospital and maternity center shall inform the parent of the newborn of the availability of the hearing screening and shall perform the hearing screening unless the procedure is contrary to the parent’s religious beliefs or parental consent is withheld.
Each hospital and maternity center shall document a parent’s consent or refusal to participate in its newborn hearing screening program.
The results of the screening, and recommendations for follow-up testing and treatment when appropriate, shall be provided to the parent and the child’s primary care health care provider, if known, before discharge.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 7-852
What does D.C. Code § 7-852 cover?
Section 7-852 ("Newborn hearing screening programs.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 7-852?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 7-852" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 7-852 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.