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Audiologist

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are health professionals devoted to improving communication skills in children and adults. Estimates show that one-in-ten Americans suffer from loss of hearing or speech problems, such as stuttering or the inability to form certain sounds. These communication problems can occur at birth or they can develop later in life as the result of a major illness or injury, such as a stroke or head-trauma injury. Children who have difficulty speaking, hearing, or understanding language cannot participate fully with others in play or classroom activities. Often these children are thought to have mental or emotional problems when, in fact, the problem is one of language or hearing. Adults with speech, language or hearing impairments may have problems on the job and withdraw socially to avoid frustration and embarrassment. Because hearing and speech are so closely related, it is necessary for audiologists and speech pathologists to understand both areas and maintain a close-working relationship. In addition, both professionals work with physicians, psychologists, counselors, physical therapists and occupational therapists.

The audiologist's concern is the patient's ability to hear accurately, thus, concentration is on assessing the type and degree of hearing impairment. They also play an important role in prevention of hearing problems and in hearing conservation. Audiologists perform a variety of tests to determine hearing range, damage site and method of treatment. Audiologists will also determine if a patient needs testing or surgery and will work with other physicians, such as an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) on appropriate procedures. Oftentimes, an effective solution will be a hearing aid. Audiologists will determine if hearing aids are the appropriate treatment and many audiologists are licensed and certified to dispense hearing aids.