How to Find an Audiologist

Have you recently been told you’re likely hard of hearing? Or do you think you’re having a harder time hearing people lately? If so, chances are it’s time to see an audiologist. An audiologist is a hearing healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing loss. They can help patients who have undiagnosed hearing loss live fuller, happier lives.

Problem is, there are a lot of them and finding a good one can be difficult.

How can you find the right audiologist?

If you’re unsure, or saying, “I don’t know,” don’t worry — you’re not alone. While performing a simple Google search for “audiologists in my area” will provide you with some hits, it can be hard to know if the audiologist will provide the type of service you expect and care you want from a healthcare professional. Instead of relying on the internet, consider these seven tips for finding the right audiologist.

1. Contact the ear, nose and throat department of your nearest university medical center and inquire if it has a list of audiologists in the area.
2. Consider heading to Costco. As weird as it may sound, Costco is in the business of being a one-stop-shop, even for healthcare. Costco is a large retailer of hearing aids and many of its stores have audiologists on site.
3. Check with your nearest university or college if it has an audiology training program. If it does, chances are good the school also has a clinic.
4. Go online and visit the American Academy of Audiology. The website has a search function that helps people find reputable audiologists in their area.
5. Ask for a recommendation from friends or family members who have already engaged with an audiologist.
6. Ask your primary care physician if he or she can provide a referral.
7. Contact the closest chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America and ask if it has a list of audiologists in your area.

Key things to remember

There are a number of audiologists at your disposal, but it’s crucial for you to find the right one for your specific hearing health needs. Don’t be afraid to call and talk to the staff, peruse patient reviews or ask as many questions as you need to find the right audiologist for you.