Hearing Center Representatives - Audiologist

Making an appointment with a local hearing center means that you are interested in checking your ability to hear. In most cases, you are going to see an audiologist. This professional has an expertise in audiology, the field of medical science that deals with the ability to hear, balance, and related disorders and issues. You can feel completely confident that this is the person you want to be working with. He or she will be able to answer all of your questions and explain exactly how your appointment is going to go. Requirements An audiologist must be licensed and registered in his specific state. Some audiologists will have a master's degree while others will have their doctorate. A regulation passed in 2007 requires that a person have a doctorate in order to practice. During this time, he or she will be working through a practicum that will provide real experience with patients and practical applications for the job. In most states, an audiologist needs to continue education in some way, shape, or form in order to maintain his license. Certification Some audiologists in a hearing center will also have a certificate from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. He or she can also be board certified through the American Board of Audiology. There are currently multiple locations around the United States for a person to study audiology. In some cases, he or she must also have a specific license to be able to prescribe and provide equipment for a person looking to improve his ability to hear. This varies from state to state. Experience An audiologist has experience helping patients determine what the issue is with their ability to hear. He or she can look at the causes of the loss, the severity of the loss, and what solutions are currently available. In some cases, aids are available to amplify sounds and make it easier for a person to hear. In more severe cases, patients may need implants or other types of surgery. A hearing center often has experienced audiologists who have worked with a patients with a variety of concerns and complaints when it comes to the ability to hear. Other Staff Just like a doctor's office, a hearing center also has support staff that works to take care of patients. Most have some type of receptionist and billing personnel. This is a patient's first stop when coming into the office. If he or she has an appointment, they will want to check in to make sure that the audiologist knows that they have arrived. Most locations offer free evaluations. If not, the co-pay or cost of the appointment may be collected upfront.