WHAT'S AN AUDIOLOGIST?

An audiologist assesses hearing and balance and treats the disorders associated with it. They also select, fit and dispense amplification systems such as hearing aids and personal FM systems, as well as, hearing protection devices. They provide consultation on the effects of noise on hearing and consumer education. Audiologists may also conduct research on hearing loss, tinnitus and balance system dysfunction.

Forty nine state regulate licensing for audiologists and almost all require a master's degree or equivalent. Other requirements may also include:
(1) 300-375 hours of supervised clinical experience
(2) a passing score on a national examination
(3) minimum 9 months of post graduate professional clinical experience.
Thirty six states have a continuing education requirement for license renewal.

There is confusion among consumers about the titles of "hearing aid specialist" and "audioprosthologist", among other titles. These titles do not signify an audiologist. Instead, they are trained to fit hearing aids by an apprenticeship and do not have the university training an audiologist has.

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