What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing instrument specialist?
Both are options. A doctor, audiologist, hearing instrument specialist or a technician can be trained to perform a hearing test. Medical interpretations should be left to the doctor. If you have no medical contraindications, you are ready for a hearing instrument. (You may waive your right for a medical evaluation.) Audiologists and hearing instrument specialists are trained in the fitting of hearing instruments; however, audiologists need to have a doctorate of audiology degree to practice audiology.
Audiologists have the minimum of a master’s degree in hearing sciences. Audiologists are educated in hearing, hearing aids, the balance system and some neurological testing. Hearing instrument specialists act as an apprentice to a professional while taking several courses on hearing loss and hearing instruments through a national board. Hearing instrument specialists test hearing and fit hearing aids. Both have to pass a state examination to be licensed to fit hearing instruments in that state. Audiologists and hearing instrument specialists are trained to fit major manufacturer’s hearing instruments and their programming software.
Audiologists, Hearing Instrument Specialists and Physicians can all help people deal with hearing loss. Below is a brief description of each profession to assist you in choosing a professional who suits your needs. Audiologists Audiologists have special training in the prevention, diagnosis and non-medical treatment of hearing disorders and may be found in medical centers, hospitals, clinics, private practice and schools. Qualifications include: a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited university, state licensure, completion of a full-time internship and passing a demanding competency examination. These professionals belong to several national organizations guided by a Code of Ethics. Audiologists are designated by signing their degree (MA, MS, PhD, AuD etc.) and CCC-A (Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology) after their name. Audiologists Audiologists provide hearing aid services to adult and pediatric patients with hearing loss. In addition, many audiologists have ex
