Small Text Normal Text Large Text
Click Here

Common Questions regarding Doctors of Audiology:

What is a Doctor of Audiology?
A Doctor of Audiology [Au.D.] is an individual who has obtained a professional doctorate in Audiology from an accredited university. In most cases, the Doctor of Audiology possesses eight years of post-high school education in conjunction with extensive clinical experience.
What is the difference between an Ear Doctor and a Doctor of Audiology?
Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors, also known as otolaryngologists, treat diseases of the ear, nose, and throat via medical and surgical means. Doctors of Audiology diagnose hearing loss and formulate and monitor a rehabilitation plan. They are hearing healthcare providers.
How do I know if my hearing problem requires a physician's help?
Audiologic testing conducted by the Doctor of Audiology will determine whether or not the nature of your hearing loss necessitates medical management. Research shows that 95% of hearing loss is not medically or surgically treatable.
What if I do need to seek the care of an ear physician?
In the rare case that your hearing test indicates that you have a medical condition, the Doctor of Audiology will provide you with suggestions regarding local ear doctors.
Why is it important to seek the care of a Doctor of Audiology for a hearing problem?
The management of hearing loss has ramifications on a person's self-image, family relationships, work performance, academic achievement, and employment security. From providing a quality hearing test to selecting the best sound processing in hearing aids; from choosing the optimum telephone amplifier or cell phone to educating the family methods to optimize communication, the Doctor of Audiology is the professional of choice.
Doctors of Audiology provide the following services as part of their scope of practice:
  • Hearing assessment of infants through geriatrics including special populations (those with Dementia or Alzheimer's Disease)
  • Consultation with physicians and/or oncologists regarding possible causes of hearing loss including chemotherapy and other medications
  • Provision of Hearing Aids and Hearing Assistive Technology
  • Cerumen (ear wax) removal. Ears cannot hear optimally when occluded and hearing aids cannot function correctly when imbedded in ear wax
  • Aural Rehabilitation to maximize the ability to hear in difficult listening environments
  • Noise Reduction management
    • Provision of earplugs and ear monitors
    • Selection of noise cancelling earphones
    • Advocacy for change in placement at employment
  • Tinnitus (ear noises) management and counseling
  • Courtroom Testimony regarding nature of hearing loss and impact on communication
  • Counseling regarding impact of hearing loss on the patient and respective family members
  • Cochlear Implant counseling
  • Balance Assessment and Vestibular Rehabilitation (VRT)