Audiologist, Clinical Audiologist: A hearing specialist with an advanced education degree (M.A., M.S., Ph.D. or Au.D.), in Audiology, Communication Disorders and/or a related field. A Clinical Audiologist may earn the Certificate of Clinical Competency in Audiology (CCC-A). Education and experience includes completing a one-year fellowship and passing the National Exam for Speech, Pathology and Audiology. This hearing instrument specialist may work closely with physicians to do various kinds of testing including hearing tests.

Au.D./Doctor of Audiology: This is an advanced, doctorate degree. Audiologists earning their doctorate degree enroll in this specialized program of classes in audiology services and testing, hearing aid care, fitting and service, and other areas relating to the hearing aid practices and business management.

Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist: A qualified professional whose sole professional focus is the evaluation and identification of hearing loss, and the fitting and servicing of hearing aids. The National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences was founded to establish standardized testing and certification, in order to measure the competency of hearing specialists. Board Certification is only given to specialists who pass the rigorous and unbiased National Competency Exam. This exam is recognized as a benchmark in the industry and sets the highest standards for expertise in all aspects of Hearing Instrument Science.

The ongoing success of your experience with your hearing aids depends on your relationship with your hearing health professional. It is vitally important that you:

  1. follow his/her instructions
  2. visit the office regularly
  3. buy your hearing aids from a dispenser close to your residence

Just like your personal physician, your hearing instrument specialist should be an individual you trust and can turn to for information and help. If you are thinking about purchasing hearing aids, choosing the right specialist is the most important part of your care. Don't be afraid to ask questions and expect clear answers.

  1. How long has the specialist been in business?
  2. Is he or she established locally?
  3. Is he or she a member of the National Hearing Aid Society, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, Academy of Dispensing Audiologists or other professional organizations?
  4. Does the hearing instrument specialist have a state license to dispense hearing aids?
  5. Does the hearing instrument specialist stand behind the product and clearly spell out the warranty and/or guarantee?
  6. Does the hearing instrument specialist offer a 30-day trial period?
  7. Does he or she represent and promote the products openly and honestly?
  8. Can the hearing instrument specialist provide rapid and efficient repairs if your hearing aid needs to be serviced?
  9. Does your hearing instrument specialist offer a FREE regular maintenance program including service and cleaning?
Answering these questions will help you choose the specialist that's right for you and then establish a good, long-term relationship with him or her. Your specialist should be your partner. Together you'll make the decisions that help improve your hearing.
 

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