When someone experiences hearing loss, it has a ripple effect. Not only is the individual affected, but also family, friends and loved ones. Moreover, while the patient has the key role in seeking help for the isolating condition, the process is also dependent on others to do their part faithfully and effectively.

The next person who bears the most responsibility in the hearing recovery process is the patient’s audiologist. This person needs to take specific steps to ensure that his patient receives the best possible treatment. The following outlines how hearing recovery professionals can best assist their patients.

They must know how to properly test, analyze and diagnose hearing loss – The audiologist must be able to perform his basic duties competently, efficiently, and effectively. He must know the proper questions to ask, what the answers mean, and what is the best treatment plan based on his discoveries. This process includes constant and informative interaction with the patient so they can make the most informed decisions about their treatment.

They must update themselves with new data, technology and treatment – There is a constant advancement in all medical fields, including audiology. Audiologists must continually educate themselves so they can provide the most up-to-date hearing aid solutions.

They must fit hearing aids – When you select your hearing aids, they have to be able to program them and fit them specifically to your ear and your hearing loss needs. This means running the correct tests and providing you with all the information you need to not only work your devices, but also care for them.

They must be able to accurately operate assistive listening devices (ALDs) – There are so many ALDs on the market, and knowing their advantages and limitation is a full-time pursuit in and of itself. However, a competent and qualified audiologist will be able to explain why they should or shouldn’t use particular ALDs. This information will be based on a sound knowledge of the device and the patient’s day-to-day environment, needs and preferences.

They must clear misconceptions – There are a number of misconceptions and misunderstandings about audiology (the amount of education and training required and a lack of understanding of the requirements of the profession). Audiologists should, therefore, work to educate, enlighten, and inform as many people as possible. 

Your audiologist will play an integral role in treating your hearing loss. From the evaluation and diagnosis to recommending the proper hearing aid for treatment, your audiologist will be with you every step of your hearing health journey.