FAQs about Audiologists

Are audiologists doctors?

Most audiologists have a doctoral level degree in Audiology. A doctoral level degree is like a Ph.D. So yes, they are doctors and they have some medical training, but they are not medical doctors. In order to be an audiologist, they must go to school, do clinical work, and then pass a national exam. Individual states may also have additional requirements to be licensed in their state.

Do audiologists just sell hearing aids?

Hearing-related disorders are just one part of an audiologist’s job. In addition, they help people with balance problems, vertigo and tinnitus. They can work in an industrial setting creating hearing preservation programs, making sure workers have protective hearing devices and teaching them how to use them correctly. Audiologists work with musicians, marksmen and hunters to make custom-fit devices to protect their hearing while they work.

What else does an audiologist do?

In addition to these tasks, audiologists are experts at assessing the ability to hear. They create custom casts of ears to be used in making earmolds and they are the first person to see if your hearing aid isn’t working properly or was damaged. They also clean ears as well as hearing aids.

What’s the difference between a hearing aid specialist and an audiologist?

A hearing aid specialist does not need any type of degree. While requirements differ from state to state, most hearing aid specialists have some classroom training and have worked under the supervision of another specialist or an audiologist. They are only skilled in dispensing and fitting hearing aids, they are not trained to treat vestibular disorders or tinnitus. An audiologist has a doctoral level degree, has extensive training in hearing and disorders of the inner ear and can dispense, fit and repair hearing aids.

What’s the difference between an audiologist and an ENT?

Both audiologists and ENTs are concerned with ears. But unlike an ENT, an audiologist is concerned with hearing as well. An ENT can treat your ear infections, but if recurring ear infection has caused loss of hearing then you see an audiologist. Many ENTs and audiologists share offices.

When should I see an audiologist?

If you or a family member is concerned about your ability to hear, you should see an audiologist. You should also see an audiologist if you any of these symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Ringing, whirring or buzzing in the ears
• Ear pain

If you have a child with delayed speech skills or poor speech development, then you should have the child’s hearing tested by an audiologist.

How do you find an audiologist?

Ask for primary care physician for a recommendation. You can also ask friends, family and co-workers. It’s always a good idea to check out an audiologist on the internet first. Make sure they have a website that they keep current and look for patient testimonials too.

How long does an appointment take?

Your first appointment with an audiologist can take anywhere from one to two hours. In addition to a battery of hearing tests, the audiologist will want to make a physical examination of your ears and review your medical history.