Have you ever wondered what exactly an audiologist does, besides look inside your ears with a lighted instrument? If you have been diagnosed with hearing loss, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about this professional who will be intimately involved in helping you come up with a solution that allows you to communicate more effectively.
What does an audiologist specialize in?
An audiologist is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance disorders.
What degree does an audiologist have?
Most have earned an Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology) while others have received a master’s degree from an accredited university, where they received extensive training in the prevention, identification, assessment and non-medical treatment of hearing and balance disorders.
Is there additional training?
They have to complete an internship, pass a national competency examination and obtain professional certification and licensure in the state(s) where they practice.
Where do they setup practice?
Audiologists work with patients of all ages, treating infants, children and adults for a variety of hearing and balance problems. They work in diverse settings like hospitals, schools, clinics, universities, private practices, VA hospitals, hearing aid dispensaries and otolaryngology (ENT) offices.
What does an audiologist do in a day?
Audiologists are responsible for services such as:
- Dispensing and fitting hearing aids.
- Administering hearing and balance tests.
- Assessing candidacy for bone anchored hearing aids and programming implantable hearing devices.
- Counseling patients and their families on communication strategies.
- Designing and implementing hearing conservation programs and newborn hearing screenings.
- Providing aural rehabilitation.
All in all, audiologists are the most qualified individuals to help you manage your hearing loss or balance disorder, and they provide an unparalleled breadth of care.
Call Torrance Audiology at (424) 257-8285 for more information or to schedule an appointment.