Audiologist or Hearing Aid Specialist: Who Does What

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When hearing becomes difficult even in quiet conversations, it is time to see a professional before buying any device.

But the names can be confusing.

Audiologist, hearing aid specialist, hearing instrument specialist, ear, nose and throat doctor: they all work with hearing, yet they have different training and roles.

This guide explains who does what, which professional to see first depending on your situation, and what to ask so you get the right care.

Why quiet-room difficulty deserves a professional

Trouble hearing in noisy places is common and often an early sign of change.

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Trouble even in quiet conversations usually means hearing loss is more noticeable, and it is exactly the situation where a full evaluation matters.

Over-the-counter hearing aids are designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.

If your difficulty is greater, or if there is any medical issue behind it, a professional can guide you to the right solution.

Audiologists

Audiologists are licensed health care professionals who specialize in hearing and balance.

In the United States, new audiologists typically hold a doctoral degree in audiology.

They perform full diagnostic hearing evaluations, identify the type and degree of hearing loss, recommend treatment, fit and adjust hearing aids, and provide hearing rehabilitation.

Many also work with tinnitus, balance problems and children's hearing.

An audiologist is a good first stop when you want a complete picture of your hearing and a range of options.

Hearing aid specialists

Hearing aid specialists, sometimes called hearing instrument specialists or dispensers,

are licensed by their state to test hearing for the purpose of selecting and fitting hearing aids.

They fit, adjust and maintain devices and help people adapt to them. Training and licensing requirements vary by state.

Hearing aid specialists are often found in hearing aid centers and retail settings.

They can be a good choice when you already know you need hearing aids and want help fitting them,

as long as there are no medical warning signs that need a doctor first.

Ear, nose and throat doctors

Otolaryngologists, often called ENT doctors, are physicians who diagnose and treat medical and surgical conditions of the ear, nose and throat.

They are the right first stop for sudden hearing loss, hearing loss in one ear, ear pain, drainage, frequent infections,

dizziness or any symptom that suggests a medical problem. Many ENT practices work closely with audiologists.

Your primary care doctor

Your regular doctor can check your ears for wax or infection, do a basic screening and refer you to an audiologist or ENT.

If your insurance requires referrals, starting here may be necessary.

Earwax buildup, for example, can muffle hearing and is simple to treat,

which is one reason a quick look inside the ears is a sensible first step.

Which professional to see first

  • Sudden change, one ear, pain, drainage or dizziness: see a doctor promptly, ideally an ENT.
  • Gradual difficulty, especially in quiet conversations: start with a full evaluation by an audiologist.
  • You already have a recent hearing test and need devices fitted: an audiologist or a licensed hearing aid specialist.
  • You are not sure: start with your primary care doctor or an audiologist.

Questions to ask any hearing professional

  1. What type and degree of hearing loss do I have in each ear?
  2. Is there any medical cause that should be treated first?
  3. What are all my options, including over-the-counter devices if they fit my case?
  4. What is included in the price: fitting, follow-up visits, adjustments, warranty?
  5. Is there a trial period, and what happens if the devices do not work for me?
  6. Can I get a copy of my hearing test results?

How to find a qualified professional

Professional associations keep directories of their members.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the American Academy of Audiology list audiologists, and the International Hearing Society lists hearing instrument specialists.

Your insurance plan's directory can show which providers are in network.

You can also check that a professional is licensed through your state's licensing board.

Signs of a good provider

A good hearing professional explains your results in plain language, presents more than one option,

is clear about prices and what they include,

offers a trial period for devices and does not pressure you to buy on the first visit.

If you feel rushed or pushed toward the most expensive option, it is reasonable to get a second opinion.

What the first visit costs

Costs depend on the provider and your coverage.

Some insurance plans cover diagnostic hearing evaluations, especially when ordered by a doctor, and some plans include hearing aid benefits.

Ask the office and your plan before the visit, and ask whether the evaluation fee is credited if you later buy devices there.

Working with your professional over time

Hearing care is not a one-time purchase.

If you get hearing aids, expect follow-up visits to adjust settings as your brain adapts to sound again.

Many people need a few weeks to get used to new devices.

Keep a short list of situations where the aids work well and where they do not,

and bring it to each follow-up; that list helps the professional fine-tune the settings for your daily life.

Plan to retest your hearing periodically, since hearing can continue to change.

A good professional will suggest a schedule based on your results. If you move or change providers,

ask for copies of your test results and device settings so your new professional can pick up where the last one left off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's order to see an audiologist?

It depends on your insurance. Some plans require a referral for coverage; others do not.

Check before your visit.

Can a hearing aid specialist diagnose medical problems?

No. Medical conditions of the ear should be evaluated by a physician.

Specialists focus on testing for and fitting hearing aids.

Is an audiologist more expensive?

Not necessarily. Prices vary by provider and what is included. Compare the full package, not just the device price.

This article is general information and does not replace advice from a licensed hearing professional or physician.

Sources and Further Reading