Hearing aid specialists perform hearing tests and ear exams to determine if a hearing aid will help their client’s hearing loss symptoms. They also ensure the proper fit is made for any assistive hearing device. Along with educating clients how to properly maintain their own hearing aids, they can help with routine maintenance and servicing of these devices as well.
Watch a video to learn more.
How to Become a Hearing Aid Specialist
There is no minimum educational requirement to become a hearing aid specialist. According to the International Hearing Society (IHS),
you have two options for training. You can receive on-the-job training through an employer or earn a degree in hearing instrument fitting and dispensing which is offered at a few colleges in the United States. The most common way many start out their career however, is through on-the-job training or by finding an apprenticeship program.
The IHS offers a Roadmap to Success PDF (pdf opens in a new tab) which provides the steps you can take to become a hearing aid specialist. Each state may also have unique licensure requirements and the contact information for each state is provided in this Licensing Board Contacts for Hearing Professionals PDF (pdf opens in a new tab).
Job Description of a Hearing Aid Specialist
A hearing aid specialist would review a client’s previous case history and perform various hearing tests on clients to determine their care needs. Sometimes, test outcomes may result in a referral to a different type of medical professional. Along with hearing tests, they also examine ears and may help with wax management when necessary. Ultimately, they help determine the most appropriate type of hearing aid for a client.
Fitting clients for their ear devices are also important and may need to take ear impressions for any prosthetic adaptation necessary. Along with knowing the technical aspect of hearing aids, they must also be good educators as they will train their clients how to properly wear hearing aids. They will also educate them on on proper maintenance. These specialists may also perform minor repairs when necessary.
Hearing Aid Specialist Career Video Transcript
Hearing aid specialists assist customers with using and learning about hearing aids. For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids can help them recover the ability to communicate, perform their work or hobbies, and enjoy a variety of life activities. Hearing aid specialists administer hearing tests for customers, and interpret the results. If hearing aids are a suitable option, specialists take ear impressions, and then may design, prepare and fit hearing aids to the patient’s ears. They also adjust the aids to a customer’s needs or preferences and train patients on how to use and care for their new hearing aids. Specialists may also repair the devices when necessary. Typically, hearing aid specialists learn their skills on the job. Licensure may be required.
Article References
National Center for O*NET Development. 29-2092.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
