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 Credentials Do Audiologists Have?
An audiologist is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. 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.
They have to complete an internship, pass a national competency examination and obtain professional certification and licensure in the state(s) where they practice.
Who Do Audiologists Work With?
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. Audiologists are responsible for services such as:
- Fitting and dispensing hearing aids
- Administering hearing and balance tests
- Assessing candidacy for and programming implantable hearing devices (e.g., cochlear implants, bone anchored hearing aids, etc.)
- Counseling patients and their families on communication strategies
- Designing and implementing hearing conservation programs and newborn hearing screenings
- Providing aural rehabilitation programs
- Performing ear-related surgical monitoring
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.
We are pleased to partner exclusively with Southwestern Hearing Center where you will find the best Doctors of Audiology in northern New Mexico. Located conveniently next door to our office, the team at Southwestern Hearing Center works in close collaboration with the staff at David R. Brown, MD ENT.
Southwestern Hearing Center, dispenses hearing aids from the top hearing aid manufacturers in the industry. These manufactures provide not only technology, but excellent service based on our high standards. The entire team at Southwestern Hearing Center is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for you and your family. To schedule an appointment with Southwestern Hearing Center, call (505) 946-3955.