If you’ve been experiencing hearing loss and wondering who you should see to treat it, you’re definitely not alone. After all, just as there are several different providers to consider for vision issues (optometrist, ophthalmologist, or optician) there are various hearing care professionals to choose from when it comes to hearing care.
So, what are the different types of hearing healthcare providers, what do they do, and what are the differences between them? Allow us to take the guesswork out of who to see for your hearing loss by explaining the different types of hearing care professionals:
Audiologist
Audiologists are experts in the science of hearing and balance. They are trained to diagnose, manage, and treat patients who have issues with hearing, balance, and other associated disorders such as tinnitus.
Besides developing hearing loss treatment plans, audiologists have the expertise to interpret hearing evaluations; diagnose and treat balance disorders related to the inner ear; perform measures to prevent hearing loss; fit pediatric hearing devices; and fit implantable hearing devices, like cochlear implants.
Examples of what they treat
Sensorineural hearing loss (inner-ear damage), noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and more.
Where they work
Audiologists may work in hospitals (typically in the Ear, Nose, and Throat department), private practices, schools, government locations, and others.
Qualifications
In the U.S., audiologists must obtain a four-year undergraduate degree and hold a Doctor of Audiology (or Au.D.) to practice. The Au.D. is a clinical doctorate, similar to an optometrist or pharmacist training. Because an Au.D. is not a medical doctor, they cannot prescribe medication or treat a hearing or balance issue that could be solved by medicine or surgery.
You may find that some working audiologists today don’t hold the title of Doctor of Audiology. This is because prior to 2006, U.S.-based audiologists' requirements consisted of a Master’s-level education to practice.
Hearing instrument specialist
Hearing instrument specialists are licensed professionals in hearing technology for adults. They evaluate the patient’s hearing loss based on audiogram results and use that information to provide the best hearing aid styles and technology for patients’ individual needs.
Some of their work includes conducting basic hearing screenings, creating custom earmolds, customizing hearing aids, and providing ongoing device maintenance and overall support.
Unlike audiologists, they cannot diagnose or treat hearing loss beyond what is treated by hearing aids.
Where they work
Hearing instrument specialists typically work private-practice clinics.
Qualifications
A hearing instrument specialist must complete the clinical program requirements of their state (some of these include a state examination and application for licensure) to practice. Some may go on to apply for board certification in hearing instrument sciences.
Otolaryngologist (or ENT—Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor)
An otolaryngologist is a physician who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment (surgical and nonsurgical) of problems related to the ear, nose, and throat. When it comes to hearing issues, they treat anything that can be addressed by medicine or surgery. This may include various ear infections of the outer or middle ear. They may also perform scans to diagnose abnormalities of the middle or inner ear.
If hearing aids are recommended as treatment, the otolaryngologist refers patients to an audiologist who is typically working in the same office.
Examples of what they treat
Chronic ear infections, allergies, thyroid conditions, and more.
Where they work
Otolaryngologists may work in hospitals, private practices, clinics, academic institutions, and others.
Qualifications
Otolaryngologists are required to complete an undergraduate degree; graduate from an accredited medical school; and undergo five years of residency training in their specialization. Some may choose to pursue further education in subspecialities such as reconstructive surgery, pediatric otolaryngology, head and neck oncology, or others.
Find the right hearing care professional for you
If you’ve read through our simplified guide and still aren’t sure who to visit for your hearing loss, seeing your primary medical provider for a referral is a good place to start.
But if you are experiencing changes to your hearing or ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears, consider seeing an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist. Simply type your zip code in here to generate a list of providers in your area.
Best of luck—and congrats on taking that first step towards looking after your hearing health.