What does a Hearing Instrument Specialist do?
Published 3 min read
A hearing instrument specialist helps people with hearing impairments by selecting, fitting, and maintaining hearing aids. They also provide counseling and support to patients and their families.
Hearing Instrument Specialist job duties include:
- Schedule and confirm appointments with patients
- Greet patients and escort them to the examination room
- Perform diagnostic tests on patients, including hearing tests
- Counsel patients and their families on hearing loss and available treatment options
- Fit patients for hearing aids and other assistive devices
- Adjust and program hearing aids according to each patient’s needs
- Teach patients how to use and care for their hearing aids
- Monitor patients’ progress and adjust treatment as needed
- Keep detailed records of patients’ treatments
- Clean and maintain equipment
Hearing Instrument Specialist Job Requirements
The job requirements for a Hearing Instrument Specialist are a high school diploma, on-the-job training, and a state license. Some states require hearing instrument specialists to have a bachelor's degree in audiology or a related field. Hearing instrument specialists must complete a four-year apprenticeship or two-year training program. They also must pass a written exam and a practical exam administered by the state licensing board.
Hearing Instrument Specialist Skills
- Good communication and customer service skills
- Patience and compassion
- Attention to detail
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to work independently
- Knowledge of hearing aids and related technology
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Excellent troubleshooting skills
- Good people skills
- Ability to stay calm under pressure
- Good time management skills
Related: Top Hearing Instrument Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Hearing Instrument Specialist
A hearing instrument specialist is a professional who helps people with hearing impairments. They work with audiologists and other health care professionals to help their patients hear better. There are many ways to become a hearing instrument specialist. One way is to get a degree in audiology or another related field. Another way is to get training from a vocational school or community college. There are also many private companies that offer training programs.
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