What is an Audiologist?

Clinical audiologists are academically trained, licensed and certified healthcare professionals who measure and evaluate a person's ability to hear, and specialize in the treatment of hearing disorders.

They also measure vestibular function as it relates to balance and balance disorders.

Audiologists characterize the functional status of the auditory system and provide a variety of approaches to help counteract the effects of hearing losses including the provision of a wide variety of listening devices, including hearing aids. Audiologists also characterize the functional status of the vestibular system and provide a variety of approaches to help counteract the effects of vestibular disorders.

• how language is learned and spoken
• the anatomy of the human ear, brain, and nerves
• the causes of hearing loss
• aural rehabilitation - rehabilitation relating to the ear and hearing.
• the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants and other implantable hearing devices
• lip reading and sign language techniques

Audiologists conduct diagnostic examinations, test for abnormalities in the hearing system and its many subcomponents, treat people with balance problems, and provide and fit hearing aids. Audiologists practice in a variety of settings, including:

• hospitals
• outpatient clinics
• inpatient rehabilitation centers
• long-term care facilities
• home health settings
• schools
• private practice

Audiologists hold a Doctoral degree, are required to be licensed in audiology in every state, and are typically certified by a national organization.