Audiologists vs. Hearing Specialists: Understanding the Differences

Audiologists and hearing instrument specialists treat hearing issues, so how do you know which one to see? Choosing the right professional is essential for effective treatment. Understanding the roles of each specialist can guide you in making the best choice for your specific hearing or ear-related concerns.

Training and Qualifications

An audiologist will typically hold a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree. They go through extensive clinical training and practice to prepare for their role and as such become experts in the care and management of hearing related issues.

In contrast, a hearing specialist may undergo different training practices and gain a range of qualifications. For example, some might simply be trained to fit hearing aids correctly or to maintain them. While both can provide value, an audiologist is usually the first referral your general practitioner will make when understanding your experience of hearing loss.

Ability To Offer Diagnoses

Hearing specialists have the training to assess basic hearing loss and fit hearing aids. They conduct hearing tests to determine the degree of hearing loss and recommend appropriate hearing aids. However, their training is more focused on the practical aspects of hearing aid technology rather than medical diagnostics. While they can identify hearing loss and provide effective solutions with hearing aids, they are not qualified to diagnose underlying medical conditions related to hearing or balance issues.

An audiologist will be trained to fully diagnose hearing and related balance disorders where appropriate. They conduct thorough evaluations to accurately diagnose different types and degrees of hearing loss using different testing methods. They’re able to use a wide array of advanced equipment to identify the cause of your hearing issues, disregard possible causes that are unlikely and to customize a treatment plan for you. These treatment options may include hearing aids, therapy or tinnitus treatments.

Full Scale Treatment Options

While audiologists provide a comprehensive range of services, including fitting hearing aids as part of their offerings. They not only incorporate and recommend hearing aids but also provide a broad spectrum of treatments to assist individuals in need. Their treatment options encompass communication strategies, auditory rehabilitation and managing conditions like tinnitus. Some specialize in specific areas of hearing care, depending on the patient’s requirements, referring patients to each other based on their expertise in different aspects of hearing health.

Hearing specialists will be more focused on how those treatments can be assisted by the use of hearing aids. They will be able to explain the different hearing aid styles to you and which will be the best for your severity of hearing loss. Your hearing specialist ensures the proper fitting of these devices, making adjustments to optimize comfort and sound quality.

Additionally, they educate patients on wearing and maintaining their hearing aids, covering insertion techniques, volume adjustments and daily care routines. Maintenance services include cleaning, replacing parts as needed and addressing any repairs to ensure the hearing aids function effectively. Beyond basic care, they may suggest accessories or assistive devices to enhance hearing in challenging environments, such as noisy settings or during phone conversations.