What are Best Practices?
Audiology Best Practices refer to a set of evidence-based procedures and guidelines aimed at providing the highest quality of hearing care. These practices are designed to ensure accuracy in diagnosis, precision in treatment, and optimal outcomes for individuals with hearing loss. Here are some key components of audiology Best Practices:
1. Comprehensive Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation:
A thorough diagnostic hearing evaluation is essential for identifying the type and degree of hearing loss. This includes not only pure-tone audiometry, but also speech-in-noise testing, which assesses how well a person can understand speech in challenging listening environments. Since many patients struggle with hearing in noise, this test is critical for creating a tailored hearing solution.
2. Real Ear Measurements (REM):
REM is a gold standard in verifying hearing aid performance. It involves placing a small probe microphone in the ear canal to measure the sound output of the hearing aid directly in the ear. This ensures that the hearing aids are delivering the appropriate amplification for the patient's specific hearing loss and ear canal acoustics, leading to more accurate and effective hearing aid fittings.
3. Electroacoustic Analysis (EAA):
This analysis evaluates the technical performance of hearing aids by measuring their output and functionality in a controlled environment. It verifies that the devices meet manufacturer specifications and are working as expected. Electroacoustic analysis ensures that the hearing aids are providing the correct amplification and frequency response, supporting long-term reliability and performance.
4. Custom Hearing Aid Fittings:
Best practices emphasize the importance of customizing hearing aid fittings to each individual's unique hearing needs, preferences, and ear anatomy. This involves selecting the right device, programming it precisely based on the patient’s audiogram, and verifying its effectiveness through REM. The goal is to provide a comfortable, well-fitted solution that enhances the patient’s hearing and quality of life.
By following these Best Practices, we ensure that hearing aids are personalized, effective, and meet the highest standards of care, resulting in better overall hearing outcomes for YOU.
Psst…Did you know? I, Dr. Lamb, am a Hearing Up Network provider?
What does it mean to be a Hearing Up Network provider (formerly Dr. Cliff AuD Approved Provider Network)?
A Hearing Up Network Provider is an audiologist who has committed to following the Best Practices in Audiology. These providers must demonstrate a dedication to excellence in hearing care, regularly applying tools like real-ear measurements, electroacoustic analysis and offering patient-centered services. Being part of the network signals to patients that the provider is trustworthy, highly trained, and focused on delivering the best possible hearing outcomes. Dr. Cliff Olson is famous for his YouTube videos (found here) that educate and promote patients about their hearing healthcare and why they need a provider who uses Best Practices to ensure their patients have the best outcomes. His team varies all his approved providers have the equipment necessary to provide Best Practices and he personally interviews each candidate to ensure they are a good fit for him to recommend to all his subscribers. This is to ensure a Hearing Up Network provider is going to have the Best Practices level of care you are looking for. I have been following and providing Best Practices for years, and now am a formally recognized Best Practices provider with the Hearing Up Network. I can’t wait to meet you and see how we can help you achieve YOUR best hearing!
