Audiology is the branch of science that studies hearing, balance, and related disorders. Its practitioners, who treat those with hearing loss and proactively prevent damage, are audiologists. What is an Audiologist? The profession of Audiology is dedicated to the diagnosis and rehabilitation of hearing loss.
Types of Audiology Degrees
There are many types of degrees available. A Bachelor’s Degree is available in Biomedical Engineering Technology, Health Sciences, and Health Information Management. Master’s Degrees are available in Health Care Administration Healthcare and Healthcare Management & Public Safety Leadership.
Job Description: Audiologist
An Audiologist specializes in communication science and disorders. He, or she, uses various instruments to diagnose difficulties and balance disorders. An Audiologist measures hearing loss and determines its cause. Once a diagnosis has been reached, they develop a treatment plan that takes into account the impact the disability is having on the patient.
Activities in the Life of an Audiologist
Provide accurate diagnosis appropriate referral and active follow up of all patients. Determine appropriate assessment tools and strategies and implement appropriate treatment plans for all patients receiving rehabilitative services. Provide proper care for departmental equipment. Select and administer the appropriate diagnostic procedures for each patient based on age and performance ability. Generate patient reports and other paperwork needed for patient care use. Fit and dispense prospective clients with an appropriate make and model of hearing aid technology and product based on their hearing loss situation. Program hearing aids using a computer. Identify impairments and dysfunction of auditory, balance, and other related systems. Provide cochlear implant programming.
Job Outlook & Projected Salaries for Audiologists
Employment of Audiologists is projected to grow 34% from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 4,300 new jobs over the 10-year period. he median annual wage for audiologists was $69,720 in May 2012. The lowest 10% in the industry earned less than $43,820 while the top 10% earned more than $101,130.