Definition of an Audiologist:
An audiologist is a non-medical professional who specializes in
the identification, testing, habilitation and rehabilitation of hearing
loss. Audiologists are required to have at least a Master's Degree, Doctorate,
i.e., Ph.D., and/or Au.D. from an accredited college or university. Most
audiologists are certified by the American Speech and Hearing Association.
Audiologists test the hearing of infants, children, adults and
the geriatric population. Audiologist are often called upon to test the
"difficult to test" population as well as other challenging cases.
They are extensively trained in anatomy and physiology of the auditory mechanism,
counseling, rehabilitation of hearing "aural rehabilitation",
diagnostic testing and fitting of hearing aids, as well as assistive listening
devices. Audiologists provide a necessary link between the primary care physician
and the ear surgeon for determining appropriate recommendations for hearing
healthcare.