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Audiology

2002-10-01 11:28:00

Dispenser vs. audiologist

Sherry Rice DuPerier Question:  What is the difference between an hearing aid dispenser and an audiologist?Answer:  In today's world technology and terminology are multiplying on an ever increasing schedule.  This is certainly true in the area of hearing instrument dispensing.  People are bombarded with words like digital, digitally programmable, linear, non-linear just to name a few.  In addition there is confusion about the titles and qualifications of the persons who dispense hearing aids.  Everyone who fits or dispenses a hearing instrument in the state of Kansas must be licensed by the Kansas Board of Hearing Aid Examiners, a state consumer protection agency.  Each applicant must take the state examination to demonstrate proficiency in the science and art of hearing instrument fitting. During the training period the applicant can work under supervision on a temporary license until the exam is taken. When the exam is completed with passing scores in all examination sections, the applicant can be granted a  permanent license to fit and dispense hearing instruments.In addition to the traditional hearing instrument dispenser explained above, many dispensers in the state also have a degree in audiology and hold a state audiology license.  The typical university audiology program covers a wide range of subjects, more than is required in the fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments.  The field of audiology is extremely broad and encompasses areas of study and employment settings such as medical diagnostics, educational programs, industrial hearing conservation, pediatrics, research and academic programs etc. Today, university audiology programs include training in hearing instruments as part of their curriculum. In fitting and testing a person for a hearing instrument there are standard tests that should always be performed by all dispensers to determine the degree of loss and the type of loss. This initial testing in the fitting of a hearing instrument is same as the general hearing test for diagnostic purposes. If the test results suggest the possibility that certain medical conditions are present, all dispensers are required to recommend that the consumer seek medical attention before proceeding with the fitting.  The percentage of losses that can be treated medically or surgically is low but definitely something that every dispenser must discuss with his or her patient. The FDA red flags and the findings on the audiogram should be explained and clarified to the patient before proceeding with the additional testing which comprises the hearing aid test battery.  While the training for hearing instrument dispensers may vary, there is far more to dispensing than the hearing test or audiogram. It is critical that the testing be done carefully and completely - to include the necessary tests (air conduction and bone conduction for example and frequencies (250 Hz through 8000 Hz) and not to "cut corners."  But as critical as obtaining a complete and accurate test is, choosing the dispenser that you will be working with is equally important.Make sure you are working with someone you are comfortable with, someone that has experience and training in book and classroom learning and also experience in the actual world of dispensing. Ask about their qualifications and also ask about the qualifications of others in the same office that may also be consulting on your fitting. Ask questions to determine if the dispenser you are talking with has the knowledge and experience to satisfy you. Make sure the dispenser has your best interests in mind in choosing a hearing instrument.  Make sure you understand the difference between the types of hearing instruments in regard to price, style and also function.  Don't just ask "what is best", ask what is best for you, your hearing loss and your lifestyle. If the dispenser doesn't have the "right" answers or the time to discuss your needs, look elsewhere.Choosing a dispenser with experience, knowledge and concern and then building a relationship with that person is the most important part of your decision.