The Audiology Doctors are specialized in treating and balancing hearing related disorders. They focus on identifying and assessing hearing and balancing problems. They also help in rehabilitating persons with hearing and balance disorders. In addition, the Audiology Doctors work towards preventing hearing loss. They are trained to make use of technology in a better way.
The Audiology Doctors, commonly referred as Audiologists provide the following services at various clinical settings:
* Evaluate the hearing process
* Counsel patients and their family members
* Evaluate and treat balance disorders
* Help individuals with devices
* Assist the patients in bridging the communication gap and speech reading
Education Requirements:
1. High School Diploma: It’s better to opt for subjects such as Biology, Anatomy or Chemistry at the High School to gain first-hand knowledge about use of technology and human behavior.
2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year bachelor’s degree program with coursework in Biology, Biochemistry, Communication Sciences or any related field, will be an added advantage.
3. Doctoral Degree: The Audiology Doctors or Audiologists must earn a doctoral degree (an AuD) accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). The American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) provides a listing of accredited schools offering an AuD program.
4. Licensure: Some states in the United States require a license while hiring the Audiologists. A current license in audiology or speech-language pathology will be very helpful for aspiring Audiology Doctors.
Working Conditions: Audiology Doctors or Audiologists work in health care settings, educational facilities, government agencies etc. They generally work for 40 to 50 hours in a week. They work with medical specialists, speech language pathologists, educators, engineers, scientists and other professionals.
Salary & Job Outlook: Job outlook for Audiology Doctors or Audiologists remains excellent at 34% for the period of 2012-22, which is much faster than average. The average annual salary for Audiologists was $69,720 per annum in 2012.