The Professional's experience with causes of delay in the diagnosis and management of children with a congenital hearing loss in Libya

Abstract

The aim of this study was to collect and interpret narrative and observational data from Audiologists and ENT doctors' experiences of delays in the identification and management of congenital hearing loss (CHL) in Libya. This qualitative study sought to explore and understand the reasons behind the delay. Participants were three Audiological Physicians and five Otolarngologists (ENT) working in public hospitals in four large cities in Libya. They were interviewed to explore the causes of such delays and themes were generated from their experiences. All participants revealed that the main causes might be associated with limited facilities and availability of audiology services, lack of awareness and knowledge of the magnitude of the issue and the importance of early detection and intervention for CHL in Libya. In contrast to other developing countries, the financial situation and poverty were not considered to be the main cause in Libya. Furthermore, socioeconomic status of the children's families appears relevant.