Who is an Audiologist?
An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of hearing and balance disorders. They work with people of all ages, from newborns to older adults, to improve hearing, communication, and the overall quality of life. Those who work primarily with children are called paediatric audiologists.
What Education Does an Audiologist Have?
In India
To become an audiologist, one must complete a BASLP (Bachelor of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology), a 4-year undergraduate program that includes one year of clinical internship. Many audiologists go on to pursue advanced degrees such as MASLP or M.Sc. in Audiology for further specialisation.
In the United States:
Audiologists must earn a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), a 4-year clinical doctorate completed after a bachelor’s degree. Many also obtain the CCC-A (Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), which reflects high standards in clinical care and ethics.
What Services Do Audiologists Provide?
- Newborn hearing screening.
- Diagnostic hearing evaluations to identify the type and degree of hearing loss.
- Programming of Hearing Aids
- Cochlear implant programming called “Mapping.”
- Auditory training and rehabilitation: Helping children learn to listen, recognize speech, and understand sounds.
- Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) assessment.
- Assessing balance issues and providing rehabilitation.
- Parental counseling and guidance: Explaining test results, discussing treatment plans, and helping parents make informed decisions.
- Provide hearing-related support to children at school.