How to Find an Audiologist in Your Area

Are you in need of an audiologist?

If you find that you’re having a hard time hearing, it may be time to visit an audiologist. An audiologist is a medical professional who is trained to diagnose and treat hearing loss and other balance related issues. While they are specialized doctors, usually with six to eight years of higher education often culminating in a doctorate degree, when it comes to finding an audiologist, choosing one can be difficult. How do you know which is the best one? What matters when you choose one? How can you be sure the audiologist will do a good job?

These questions are common for individuals who are finding an audiologist for the first time.

Consider the following tips for finding an audiologist who works best for you and your needs.

1. Ask for recommendations

When you’re looking for an audiologist, consider asking your friends or family members who have hearing aids who they see. The best, and most honest, recommendations come from the people we trust the most. In addition, primary care physicians can provide recommendations. Lastly, insurance companies can also provide recommendations; these recommendations are typically providers who fall within your insurance provider’s network, which can be a win-win find.

2. Go online

After you receive recommendations, hit the web to check out the audiologist’s website. On the website, you’ll want to look for specific information that will cue you in on the type of office the audiologist runs. What are the hours of operation? How close to your home is the office? Does the website include reviews or recommendations? How many employees or staff members work at the office?

3. Consider the type of care you want

Audiologists work in different settings. While all audiologists will be dedicated healthcare professionals, the type of setting in which they work can create different experiences. For example, an audiologist with a private practice will likely be able to provide a more intimate, quiet experience than an audiologist who works at a hospital or educational setting, such as a college campus.

4. Trust your gut

If you get a funny feeling in your stomach that pushes you toward or away from an audiologist, definitely trust it. While recommendations and research can help inform you in your decision-making process, it is important to trust your intuition.

Once you find an audiologist, schedule an appointment to have your auditory system evaluated. The audiologist will be your partner in hearing healthcare, so take your time and find the right one