Barriers and Limitations in Neonatal Hearing and Vision Screening in Latin America: A Scoping Review.

introductionHearing and vision impairments in newborns can significantly affect child development. Early detection through screening is key to preventing permanent disabilities. In Latin America, the implementation of these programmes faces multiple barriers, such as lack of resources, geographical inequalities, shortage of trained personnel, and low public awareness.

objectiveTo map the available scientific evidence on barriers and limitations in access to neonatal hearing and vision screening in Latin America. MATERIALS AND

methodsA scoping review was conducted following the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR. Studies using different methodologies were included from the scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, BIREME, and Web of Science. Articles from 2015 to 2025 were included, in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

resultsForty studies from twenty Latin American countries were included. The most common barriers were: low coverage, socioeconomic and territorial inequalities, structural limitations, lack of training, scarce equipment and technology, and administrative obstacles. These affect all levels of care, with the greatest impact in rural areas. Among the strategies reported, the following stand out: training of human resources, implementation of accessible technology, educational campaigns, and improvements in service coordination.

conclusionTo overcome these barriers, it is essential to strengthen public policies that guarantee mandatory compliance and sustained funding, standardise protocols, expand resources to underserved areas, and improve training for healthcare personnel.