Educating Americans about hearing loss, prevention and care.
America's Hearing Healthcare Team (AHHT) Initiative is working to educate Americans about hearing loss, prevention, and care.
The initiative is sponsored by the International Hearing Society and the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery. It is endorsed by the American College of Surgeons, American Neurotology Society, American Otological Society, Cochlear Implant Association and Deafness Research Foundation.
America's Hearing Healthcare Team was launched for the estimated 28 million Americans who currently do not seek care for their hearing loss. The patient is at the center of the team composed of primary care physicians, otolaryngologist head and neck surgeons, hearing aid specialists, audiologists, consulting specialists, allied health professionals and researchers.
The ear is connected to the rest of the body and may be affected by infection and systemic disease. Appropriate treatment depends on correct medical diagnosis. AHHT team members recognize the Red Flag Warning Signs of ear disease indicating the need for physician referral.
Physicians evaluate and manage the systemic medical conditions that underlie or contribute to hearing loss. They maintain a broad perspective of the patient's health, which results in a more detailed diagnosis. They are fundamental members of the team and often refer patients for an evaluation of hearing loss. A medical degree (MD or DO) is required.
Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat physician) perform and supervise hearing and balance testing to provide medical diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of diseases of the hearing and balance systems in children and adults. This may include prescribing medications; performing surgery; selecting, fitting, and dispensing hearing aids and related devices; and cochlear implants. The nationally accepted credential for otolaryngologists is Board Certification by the American Board of Otolaryngology. A medical degree (MD or DO) is required.
Hearing Aid Specialists assess hearing and select, fit and dispense hearing aids and related devices. Hearing aid specialists provide instruction, rehabilitation and counseling in the use and care of hearing aids and related devices, as appropriate. The nationally accepted credential for hearing aid specialists is Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences (BC-HIS).
Audiologists who work within AHHT, identify and assess disorders of the hearing and balance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fit and dispense amplification systems, such as hearing aids and related devices; program cochlear implants; and provide services to enhance human communication. A graduate (Doctorate or Master) degree is required for practice.
