Hearing loss has a considerable impact on the lives of millions of People. An estimated 13 percent of Americans have hearing impairment in both ears, while 2 percent of those over 45 have extreme hearing loss deemed disabling. Less than one-third of Americans aged 70 and older who might benefit from hearing aid devices use them. Audiologists and hearing aid specialists specialize in hearing loss and the best-known treatment options. However, many people need clarification about the differences between audiologists and hearing aid specialists. What makes it even more incoherent is these phrases are many times used interchangeably. When the fact is, they are altogether distinct disciplines. While both are valid, many people ask which one is best suited to assist them. We will examine the likenesses and contrasts between these hearing health practitioners to help you make the right decision with your hearing health needs.
Audiologists and Hearing Aid Specialists: What Do They Have in Common?
The puzzlement in comprehending these two disciplines occurs because they both test for and provide treatment for hearing loss. The distinctions are much more apparent and observable. Both can offer and operate hearing aid devices and testing. Both need renewable certification and have an established record of assisting their patients with hearing health issues.
What are the Differences?
The resemblance between an audiologist and a hearing instrument specialist can be defined easily, and the differences must be described in detail to provide clarity. If not, you may visit the wrong one and not get the necessary relief.
Hearing Aid Specialists:
The most notable difference between these two specializations is the level of schooling. While audiologists receive years of school and an advanced degree, hearing aid specialists only require a 2-year degree or completion of a certification program. The other distinction is the depth of support; hearing instrument specialists are specialists in hearing aid devices, from measuring and setting up for a perfect fit to fine-tuning each instrument to function at top performance. Consider your problem goes further than hearing loss and affects balance issues, bodily injury, obstructions, or concerns involving more than the inner ear. In these cases, you will need an audiologist.
Audiologists:
Audiologists are medical experts with extensive training in the technical aspect of diagnosis and remedy for hearing issues and balance disorders. They can conduct exhaustive hearing exams and assist patients in coping and dealing with balance and hearing loss. An audiologist requires up to 8 years of medical school and at least 1800 hours of clinical experience. Audiologists can go beyond the inner ear and diagnose anything wrong with the entire auditory system, which includes the brain. They can go deeper into your hearing fitness and suggest surgery when required.
