The Difference Between a Hearing Aid Dispenser and Audiologist in Mesa
Hearing a baby’s laughter, an uplifting rock ballad, or something as simple as a phone ringing may not seem like big deals at first. But when your hearing diminishes and those sounds become faint whispers, they suddenly become much more valuable. Hearing aids are a seemingly simple fix to diminished hearing.
With many options available to Mesa area residents, the option to choose an audiologist may not seem so obvious, but there are many reasons why you should.
Education
The quality of treatment you receive rests largely in the education your hearing specialist receives. In the state of Arizona, a hearing aid dispenser can administer hearing aids with no more than a high school diploma or GED equivalent. This could leave you with less than desired results and poor treatment.
On the other hand, an audiologist undergoes extensive training. After completing undergraduate studies, an audiologist goes on to receive a doctorate in what is typically an eight-year program. During their postgraduate studies, they will learn the intricacies of the human ear, including the body’s smallest bones – collectively known as the ossicles – which are responsible for your ability to hear. In addition to basic anatomy, an audiologist is trained in acoustics and auditory rehabilitation, often through the use of devices like cochlear implants and hearing aids.
Additionally, audiologists are trained extensively in the vestibular system, the system that is responsible for coordinating movement, spatial orientation, and balance.
Certification
In Arizona and other states, regulations determine whether an individual is able to administer hearing aids. To become a hearing aid dispenser, an individual must take a written and practical test before administering hearing aids to patients. A series of 24 credit hours must then be completed over the next 24 months to maintain certification.
After completing doctoral studies, an audiologist must participate in a supervised externship that varies in length. Upon completion, an audiologist must pass a national standardized exam to receive their state licensure. Audiologists must also receive continued education credits in respect to their licensure. Board-certified audiologists may need to undergo additional education to maintain their fellowship.
Experience
Even after many years in the business, a hearing aid dispenser’s experience is limited. Having only the ability to administer hearing aids, these individuals are incapable of finding the root of the cause and addressing the problem to its fullest.
An audiologist is well educated and has seen any number of hearing problems and can thoroughly address any concerns with your hearing. Whether the problem is conductive or sensorineural hearing loss, your audiologist will be able to address your concerns. In some cases, hearing aids may be nothing more than a bandage solution, with particular conditions finding better results in surgery or therapy treatments. An audiologist would use their experience with their numerous patients to find the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
If you are experiencing hearing problems and would like to address your concerns with an educated and experienced individual, look no further than Dr. Cassandra Fynes of Fynes Audiology. Dr. Fynes has serviced been an audiologist in Mesa and surrounding areas for over ten years and continues to learn the latest innovations in hearing correction. Trust your hearing to a professional by calling (480) 456-0176 today.
