- Learn the difference between an audiologist, a hearing aid dispenser, an audioprosthologist, and an ENT doctor, and when to see each one.
- Understanding provider qualifications helps you choose safe, effective care for hearing loss, hearing aids, and any related ear concerns.
- If you are struggling with hearing loss, this guide explains what to expect from each type of specialist and how to choose the right place for a hearing evaluation.
If you are struggling with hearing loss, you have likely at least begun to look around for the best options for treating that loss, which probably means hearing aids. In that research, you may have found different types of providers and may not understand what these mean.
Some of the most common terms include Audiologist, Hearing Aid Dispenser, Hearing Instrument Specialist, and more recently, Audioprosthologists.
So what is the difference between these types of providers, and does it make a difference who you see?
Hearing Aid Dispensers / Hearing Instrument Specialists
Each state has their own laws and requirements for hearing aid dispensers and hearing instrument specialists (titles often used interchangeably). For the purposes of this article, we will use the requirements in the state of Arizona as this is where our office is located. Hearing Aid Dispensers are required to have completed an associate degree in any major prior to applying.
All dispensers begin with a Temporary license. This license requires that they work with a fully licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist. That sponsor is required to provide at least 64 hours per month of on-site training and supervision.
In order to become a fully licensed Hearing Aid Dispenser, the person with the temporary license must pass both a written and practical exam. Once passed, that individual is able to dispense and fit hearing aids without supervision in the state of Arizona.
Due to their limited training, they are not licensed to remove wax from ears or do any type of assessment not required for the fitting of hearing aids. Since they are not credentialed as a medical provider, they are also not able to bill or charge for hearing evaluations. This is often why locations with Hearing Aid Dispensers offer “free” testing as their primary source of income, necessarily, is from hearing aid sales and supplies.
What Is an Audioprosthologist?
Another type of provider you may see in some places is an “Audioprosthologist.” If we break down this word, audio means hearing, prosthesis means device, and ology means science. So, the definition is a person who fits hearing devices.
More specifically, if reviewed online, this term is meant to be specifically applied to hearing aid dispensers who have completed a course in audioprosthology through the American Council on Education. This coursework is estimated to be the equivalent of 15 undergraduate credits.
Due to the similarity in the words “Audiologist” and “Audioprosthologist,” it can be confusing for the average patient with hearing loss to understand the difference. This is why there are some states, Including Oregon, Ohio, and California, which have prohibited the use of the title.
In Arizona, it is legal to use the title “Audioprosthologist,” so it is important to be vigilant in knowing the qualifications of the person you are seeing by clarifying these terms prior to your appointment.
What Is an Audiologist?
The final word in the hearing aid world is “Audiologist.” An Audiologist is a post-bachelor degree which requires a 4 year undergraduate degree as well as a 4-year doctorate degree which specializes in audiology prior to receiving their license.
Audiologists are able to complete diagnostic testing for hearing loss, balance issues, and monitoring of patient status during surgeries (interoperative monitoring). Many work with internal hearing devices, such as cochlear implants, to help patients with hearing loss which cannot be effectively aided with a standard hearing aid.
Audiologists can diagnose hearing loss and balance issues though cannot diagnose the cause or prescribe medications. Wax removal is also within their scope of practice. Some audiologists are also able to diagnose and treat Auditory Processing Disorder.
Audiologists have been thoroughly trained in best practices with all testing and hearing aid fittings to ensure patients have the best experience possible with their hearing aids. Their advanced degree also requires a thorough understanding and knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the hearing and balance systems so that referrals are done accurately, when necessary.
Oro Valley Audiology connects you to expert audiologists in Tucson, AZ.
What About ENT Doctors?
One other profession that may be confusing is that of an Otolaryngologist or ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) physician. These titles indicate the provider is a medical doctor who has completed medical school and is authorized to complete treatment, surgery, and prescribe medications as needed.
Audiologists, though carrying the title of “doctor,” are not medical physicians. The difference between an ENT physician and Audiologist can best be compared to the difference between an Optometrist (who evaluates vision and prescribes glasses) and an Opthomologist (medical doctor who can perform surgeries and prescribe medications). Both are referred to as “doctors,” though only the ophthalmologist is a medical doctor.
When to See Each Provider
When you are seeking care for your ears and hearing, here are some guidelines.
- If there is any ear pain, drainage, a sudden hearing loss, or dizziness, an otolaryngologist (ENT) would be the best place to start.
- If you have issues hearing, and would like to have a complete audiologic evaluation with someone who has in-depth knowledge of the physiology and anatomy behind that loss, and want to ensure your provider has been trained in best practices for the fitting and follow-up care with hearing aids, an Audiologist would be the best choice. Most audiologists also have other sources for income besides hearing aids – so they are less likely to be pushing you into hearing aid purchases.
- If cost is the biggest concern, it may be possible to seek out a good Hearing Aid Dispenser / Audioprosthologist, though this does not always reduce the cost of aids. If this is your chosen route, always ensure your provider follows best practices for their fittings. This means they run a test called Real Ear Measures and fit to your prescription. It is important that they actually “Fit to Target” and not just “run” the test. The degree of success with hearing aids is highly dependent on how well this test is completed.
Bottomline
If you or your family member has hearing loss or is concerned about your hearing and would like to schedule a diagnostic hearing test, please contact Oro Valley Audiology at (520) 825-4770.
If you have a current set of aids and do not feel best practices were completed when you were fit, we would also love to help to get you hearing your best.
We would be happy to work with you and ensure you have the best experience possible as you work to treat your hearing loss and enjoy your life to your fullest potential.
