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In a world filled with sounds, the importance of maintaining good hearing health cannot be overstated. For this reason, audiologists play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing hearing-related issues.

Their expertise goes beyond merely selling hearing aids, as they are highly trained professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life for those with hearing impairments.

In this blog, we will delve into the world of audiologists, exploring what they do, their specialties, and the differences between them and hearing aid dispensers.

Ontario Hearing Center has audiologists in Brighton, NY, ready to address your hearing needs and concerns.

Who are audiologists?

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of hearing and balance disorders.

They hold advanced degrees, typically a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), and undergo extensive clinical training to become experts in the intricacies of the auditory system.

What Do Audiologists Do?

Audiologists play a significant role in the hearing health of individuals of all ages. Below are some of the main roles and responsibilities of audiologists:

  1. Hearing Assessments: Audiologists conduct comprehensive hearing evaluations using specialized equipment to assess the patient’s hearing abilities, identifying any hearing loss or impairment.
  2. Diagnosis: If hearing loss or other auditory issues are identified, audiologists investigate the underlying causes to determine the best course of action for treatment.
  3. Treatment and Rehabilitation: Audiologists develop personalized treatment plans for patients with hearing impairments. This may include recommending hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices.
  4. Hearing Aid Fittings: When hearing aids are prescribed, audiologists ensure the proper selection, fitting, and programming of the devices to suit the patient’s specific needs.
  5. Counseling: Audiologists offer counseling and support to patients and their families, helping them understand their condition and providing strategies to cope with hearing challenges.

Specializations within Audiology

Audiology encompasses a wide range of specializations, enabling professionals to focus on specific areas of expertise:

  1. Pediatric Audiology: These audiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing disorders in infants, children, and adolescents.
  2. Geriatric Audiology: Geriatric audiologists work with the elderly population, addressing age-related hearing loss and age-related balance issues.
  3. Cochlear Implants: Audiologists who specialize in cochlear implants work with individuals who have severe to profound hearing loss, providing them with implantable devices that stimulate the auditory nerve.
  4. Balance Disorders: Audiologists with expertise in balance disorders diagnose and treat conditions like vertigo and dizziness, which are often related to problems with the inner ear.
Audiologist fitting hearing aid on male patient with ear anatomy poster
Audiologist fitting hearing aid using portable computer for adjustments

Audiologists vs. Hearing Aid Dispensers

While both audiologists and hearing aid dispensers are involved in addressing hearing issues, there are significant differences between the two:

  1. Education and Training: Audiologists undergo extensive academic and clinical training, holding a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree, which typically requires four years of graduate study. On the other hand, hearing aid dispensers generally have a much shorter training period and are often only required to complete a certification or diploma program.
  2. Scope of Practice: Audiologists have a broader scope of practice, which includes diagnosing hearing disorders, conducting medical evaluations, and providing rehabilitative services beyond hearing aids. Hearing aid dispensers are mainly focused on fitting and dispensing hearing aids.
  3. Medical Expertise: Audiologists possess medical knowledge and can identify underlying medical conditions related to hearing loss that may require medical intervention. Hearing aid dispensers are not trained to diagnose or treat medical conditions.

Audiologists in Brighton, NY: Ontario Hearing Center

Audiologists are indispensable healthcare professionals committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with hearing impairments. Their extensive education, training, and specialized knowledge make them the go-to experts for assessing and addressing various hearing and balance disorders.

Whether it’s through hearing assessments, counseling, or fitting hearing aids, audiologists in Brighton, NY,  play a crucial role in supporting patients on their journey to better hearing health.

If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing difficulties, seeking the guidance of a qualified audiologist can be a life-changing decision that opens up a world of clearer, richer sounds.

Ontario Hearing Center is an audiology and hearing aid clinic with expert audiologists that provides comprehensive hearing care services, hearing tests, cochlear implants, and advanced hearing solutions.

Dr Beth Orlando professional headshot against brick wall

Dr. Elizabeth Orlando

Audiologist
Dr John McNamara professional headshot in blue shirt and tie

Dr. John Mcnamara

Audiologist
Dr Andrea Segmond professional headshot in blue blazer

Dr. Andrea Segmond

Audiologist
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Patient Reviews From Brighton, NY

“I can’t believe how much better I can hear now…”
Well, I just turned 60 and decided to have my hearing tested. The good news is I needed hearing aids. I say good news because I can’t believe how much better I can hear now. Dr. John McNamara was so knowledgeable and helped me select the proper hearing aids for my hearing loss. No more saying “What?”, and I can finally hear the TV at a normal volume. Fantastic service and support from a well run office.
Dave
“Wonderful”
Andrea is wonderful! I have been a client of Ontario Hearing for about 15 years. The staff are friendly and efficient. I have purchased 3 or 4 pairs of hearing aids here. Each time, Andrea makes sure my devices are working properly and fit well. I will continue to recommend Ontario Hearing.
Meghan
“Our experience has been incredible…”
My entire family (3 generations) have been going to Ontario Hearing Instruments for almost 20 years. Every aspect of our experience has been incredible. The staff is amazing. Dr. Segmund is almost like a family member to us. She truly understands our challenges and is ALWAYS looking for the best possible solutions for our hearing loss. I can't even count the number of times she has said something to the effect of: "I was at this conference and saw this and thought specifically of you and your dad - I think this would really help". My hearing loss has been in the "profound" range for years. I do not know how I could have managed this more effectively than I have with the help of Ontario Hearing. I have recommended their services many times for many people and will continue to do so. Definitely worth looking into. They truly provide amazing service to all their patients.
Matt