Hearing Screenings
Hearing screenings are conducted to determine if a student requires a full hearing exam. Screenings are required annually for students in Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades. Students who are new to the district and students with an IEP must also receive hearing screenings.
All CPS schools are assigned a Hearing Certified Technician who schedules screenings for mandated grades each school year. Screening clinics are also available by appointment for students who were absent on screening days or who are new to the school. Following a hearing screening, if a student needs a vision exam, the technician will provide the parent/caregiver with a referral. For questions about hearing screenings at your school, email OSHW@cps.edu or reach out to your school directly.
Hearing Exams
Hearing exams are conducted by a doctor to determine overall health and prescribe hearing aids if needed. Students who meet referral criteria following a hearing screening and/or threshold test by a CPS technician are referred to a medical provider. The parent/caregiver may then call and make an appointment at the UIC Eye and Ear Infirmary or a CPS Audiology Clinic listed below. The UIC Eye and Ear Infirmary requires insurance. CPS Audiology Clinics do not require insurance.
If you need assistance enrolling in Medicaid, reach out to the CPS Children and Family Benefits Unit. You will need to obtain a referral or authorization if they are required by your insurance carrier.
Health Centers and Clinics
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School-Based Health Centers
School-based health centers are primary health care sites located in schools or nearby schools. Services include but are not limited to: immunizations, physical exams, sports physicals, behavioral healthcare, chronic condition management, sexual and reproductive health care, and acute care. Students can access health services at no out-of-pocket cost. Most services require parent or caregiver consent. Some SBHCs are available to the community and to neighboring schools. Call ahead before making an appointment.
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Community Health Clinics
Federally Qualified Health Centers provide comprehensive, culturally competent, high-quality primary health care services as well as supportive services such as health education, translation, and transportation that promote access to health care. Centers provide services regardless of a patient’s ability to pay and charge for services on a sliding fee scale.