We all have goals for 2019. Some audiologists want to explore going out of network. Others want to evaluate unbundling. Still others are going to investigate telehealth. For me, my #1 priority for 2019 is for audiologists to own audiology and to promote audiology to the masses. It’s not going to focus on why we believe are the best providers of amplification. Nope, for me, it’s going to solely be about AUDIOLOGY.
In my mind, audiology is much more than hearing aids. Instead, audiology consists of:
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Hearing loss and falls prevention
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Hearing protection
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Industrial hearing assessment, prevention, and protection programs
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Adult and pediatric diagnostic audiologic screenings and assessments
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Auditory processing evaluation and management
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Tinnitus/hyperacusis/misophonia evaluation and management
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Vestibular evaluation and rehabilitation
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Amplification and assistive technology evaluation, fitting, and management
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Implantable technology evaluation, programming and management
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Aural rehabilitation and auditory training
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Cerumen removal
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Intraoperative monitoring
Many of these services above are completely underserved in the United States. Many drive physician engagement and referrals. Individuals in need of care often have to drive hours to find a qualified provider. There are also often long wait times, as a result, to get appointments. We have relegated to others, in many cases individuals who are less trained and capable than audiologists, a skillset that is unique, in many ways, to us. Why? How did we lose sight of our identity?
The practice of comprehensive audiology, provided in accordance with the evidence, is the path forward for the growth and success of our profession and its professionals. This is what consumers can never receive over the counter or from big box retailers. For too many years, we have focused too much of our attention on the delivery of a product and not enough on the delivery of care and service. How are consumers supposed to be aware of our profession and what we do if we do not promote and practice it? How do we help consumers experience AUDIOLOGY and its overwhelmingly positive influence on quality of life?
I know what someone is going to say next: “You cannot make a living providing these services!”. To that I will say, why can’t you? You can and I know folks, across the US, who do. It is first about understanding and monetizing the value of YOU, your experience, your training and you. It’s about illustrating that value to consumers and patients. It’s about accepting the realization that insurance and third-parties do not cover everything and about communicating that to in your community. Patients will be responsible for many out of pocket costs. Straightforward communications and price transparency will go a long way in setting the stage for your financial policies and actions and for monetizing the unique care you provide. This is the care they cannot get by other means!
I want to bring audiology to the masses! I want consumers to #thinkaudiology! Who is onboard?
