What Is An Audiologist?

An audiologist is a person who is qualified in the study of hearing and hearing impairment. An audiologist studies audiometry, which is the study of hearing. The role of the audiologist is to perform examinations which can diagnose hearing impairment. They also prescribe, administer and monitor treatment such as hearing aids and cochlea implants.  Audiologists are usually based in hospitals.

An audiologist uses a variety of equipment and methods to help their diagnosis. They may use a speech audiometer to measure hearing for speech. Other equipment used includes a pure tone audiometer to establish pitch and loudness thresholds which print out in the form of an audiogram. Electric response audiometry relies on the measurements gained from voltages in the nerves of the hearing system as they respond to sound. Impedance audiometry measures the amount of sound reflected by the ear drum when stimulated by a sound wave. This tests the effectiveness of the middle ear.