SWOT analysis of Russian universal newborn hearing screening program

Abstract

Introduction. The negative impact of congenital hearing loss on child’s development, education and socialization can be reduced by early identification and intervention as a result of universal newborn hearing screening. The screening program needs continuous improvement by monitoring of outcomes and correction of algorithms. The SWOT analysis can be applied to make effective decisions. 
 The purpose of the study is to identify strategies for the improvement of the Russian newborn hearing screening program based on SWOT analysis.
 Materials and methods. The study was based on the experience of two pediatric audiological centres in Novosibirsk and St. Petersburg. 
 At the first stage, in accordance with the SWOT methodology, internal and external factors, the strengths and weaknesses of the Russian hearing screening program were identified, as well as the opportunities and threats that can affect the audiological care for children. At the second stage, pairwise analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats was carried out.
 Results. The strengths of the Russian hearing screening program are national level implementation, high coverage of newborns in maternity hospitals, the use of modern objective audiological methods. Weaknesses are associated with a lack of medical personnel, need to equipment replacement, number of cases lost to follow-up. Opportunities are the availability of high-quality domestic diagnostic equipment, possibility for active interaction of specialists and families. The threats are caused by an imperfect legal framework and funding mechanisms, low awareness of parents, related professionals and society about the problem of congenital hearing loss. 
 Limitations. The study results are limited by the expertise of the authors without involving the wide range of stakeholders.
 Conclusion. The developed strategies can increase timely audiological service to hearing impaired children and their families and to plan the necessary resources in the face of modern challenges.