Free for Children in the Upper Peninsula

The LMAS District Health Department provides free hearing and vision screenings for children in Luce, Mackinac, Alger, and Schoolcraft counties. These screenings are offered through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to help ensure children can hear and see properly, allowing them to succeed in school and everyday life.

Screenings are conducted in public, private, and charter schools, as well as in preschools, large childcare centers, Head Start programs, and by appointment at the local health department.

Why Hearing and Vision Screenings Are Important

• Many children do not realize they have a hearing or vision problem.
• Undiagnosed issues can impact learning, physical development, and social interactions.
• Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term complications.

Who Receives Free Screenings?

Michigan law requires children to receive screenings at key developmental stages. Screenings are provided for:

• Preschool children (ages 3-5)
• Children entering kindergarten
• Hearing screenings in grades K, 2, and 4
• Vision screenings in grades 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 (or during driver’s training)

If your child is not enrolled in a formal school setting, you can schedule a free screening by contacting your local health department.

About the Hearing and Vision Screening Program

Hearing Screenings

• Identify hearing loss that can affect speech and language development.
• Children who do not pass the screening are referred to an audiologist or physician for further evaluation.

Vision Screenings

• Detect vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and lazy eye.
• Children needing further evaluation are referred to an eye care professional.

Screening Process and Follow-Up

• Over 1 million children are screened annually in Michigan.
• Approximately 88,000 children are referred for further care each year.
• About 10% of children screened for vision and 5% screened for hearing require additional evaluation.
• Screenings are conducted by state-trained technicians to ensure accuracy.

Commitment to Children’s Health

The LMAS District Health Department is dedicated to ensuring that every child in the Upper Peninsula has the hearing and vision skills necessary to succeed. By identifying and addressing potential issues early, we help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development.