Athens Oconee Audiology 1610 Mars Hill Road, Suite A, Watkinsville, GA 30677, (706) 705-4781

Sounding Off on Hearing Aids – Expert Advice from the

Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that more than 35 million

Americans are living with impaired hearing, and many of

those people are unsure where to find the best information about choosing a hearing device. The FTC

recommends seeking advice from a qualified hearing specialist such as an otolaryngologist, audiologist or

hearing aid dispenser.

An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat,

ears, head and neck. As a disease specialist, an

otolaryngologist does not typically fit hearing aids.

Many states authorize a hearing aid dispenser to sell and fit hearing devices. Qualifications for credentials vary from state to state and do not necessarily

include an advanced degree in the hearing field. A hearing aid dispenser may or may not be an expert in hearing loss.

An audiologist is the expert most people see to evaluate their hearing loss.

An audiologist has earned a Masters degree and perhaps also an AuD (doctorate). An audiologist can perform hearing tests, fit hearing aids,

provide expert hearing aid advice and explain which hearing accessories may be most beneficial for you.

Don’t trust your hearing to a so-called expert – trust the FTC and speak with

a qualified hearing specialist about your hearing loss.