Who Conducts Hearing Tests?
For the purpose of hearing aid selection, there are two types of Hearing
Professionals who can conduct hearing tests – Audiologists and Hearing
Instrument Specialists (HIS). Both have to be licensed by their
respective state(s) where they practice, and both can be equally
qualified for the purpose of dispensing hearing aids. The biggest
difference is their training originates from two distinctly different
paths. It should also be noted that the hearing aid manufacturers
allow their products to be sold and fit by each type of hearing
professional.
Audiologists
An Audiologist is a professional who
has undergone education and training from an accredited university
program. Audiologists graduating from school today receive an
AuD (Doctor of Clinical Audiology) and are trained to perform
a number of diagnostic tests for balance disorders and other ear-related
neurological problems, deaf education, pediatric testing, as well as hearing
aid dispensing. Audiologists can work in private practice, at
hospitals, ENT offices, schools, and for hearing aid manufacturers. Audiologists
are frequently certified and members of the American Speech and
Hearing Association and the American Academy of Audiology.
Hearing Instrument Specialists (HIS)
There are thousands
of qualified Hearing Instrument Specialists in practice throughout
the U.S. today. State licensing and training ensures that a HIS is knowledgeable
and capable of performing the appropriate hearing test measures
to select and fit hearing aids. Also, like Audiologists, a HIS is trained
to identify certain medical issues that may preclude someone from wearing
hearing aids and then make an appropriate medical referral. Many of these
professionals are members of the International Hearing Society (HIS).
In order to maintain membership, continuing education is mandatory and
members may also pass additional training and testing to be Board Certified
by the HIS.
When looking
for a professional with whom to work, you should look for years
of experience, knowledge level, and empathy. Ask your friends
or your family doctor for a referral. Many states allow you to check
a professional’s
background by searching online through their state’s department of
health website. The bottom line is that you want to feel comfortable
with your Hearing Professional because you’ll be entering into
a long relationship with that person.
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Hearing Aids
