Audiology is the branch of science that studies hearing, balance, and their disorders. The term was coined by Raymond Carhart. Its practitioners, who study hearing and treat those with hearing losses, are audiologists. Employing various testing strategies (e.g. hearing tests, otoacoustic emission measurements, and electrophysiologic tests), audiology aims to determine whether someone can hear within the normal range, and if not, which portions of hearing (high, middle, or low frequencies) are affected and to what degree. If an audiologist diagnoses a hearing loss he or she will provide recommendations to a patient as to what options (e.g. hearing aids, cochlear implants, surgery, appropriate medical referrals) may be of assistance.

Audiologist

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Audiologists are licensed professionals who have a doctorate degree (Masters, Au.D. or Ph.D.) in the hearing sciences and state/national licensure. Currently, audiologists have a clinical/educational background that emphasizes diagnostic testing, amplification technology, hearing science, and assistive device fitting. Audiologists may also specialize in pediatric diagnostics/amplification, cochlear implants, educational audiology, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, vestibular and balance issues, and/or industrial hearing conservation. Audiologists also dispense hearing aids.

Audiologists are also involved in the prevention of hearing loss and other communication disorders. Hearing Conservation programs in industry and government strive to prevent noise induced hearing loss through education and Audiologist intervention. Audiologists are often in charge of Newborn Hearing Screening programs designed to identify hearing loss within the first 3 months of life.

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