Audiology
The audiologists of Southcoast Rehabilitation Services are hearing health care professionals who hold masters' degrees, national certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and licenses from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Their expertise and clinical skills include diagnosing the degree and type of hearing loss as well as recommending and fitting appropriate hearing aids or assistive listening devices. They provide extensive support, counseling, and service with every instrument fit. The Hearing Aid Program at Southcoast combines clinical excellence and current technology.
The audiologists of Southcoast provide comprehensive communication programs for the hearing impaired including:
- Alerting devices
- Assistive listening devices
- Battery club
- Complete audiologic assessment
- Diagnostic evaluations by certified and licensed audiologists
- Ear care products
- Earmold impressions for custom fit
- Extensive follow up
- Hearing aids
- Hearing aids evaluation using real ear measurement
- Hearing aid fitting and orientation
- Prescription and fittings
- Service and accessories
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The first step in meeting your hearing needs is a comprehensive audiological evaluation. Testing completed in the sound proof environment can provide information about:
- The degree of hearing loss
- The type of hearing impairment
- Middle ear function
- Hearing sensitivity for each ear
- The ability to understand speech in quiet and in noise
- The need for hearing aids or assistive listening devices
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After your audiologist has explained the results of the evaluation and the recommendation for hearing aid(s), an appointment is scheduled for a hearing aid evaluation. This evaluation is necessary to determine:
- Potential benefit from hearing aids
- Hearing aid circuitry
- The best prescription for the specific hearing loss
- Accurate ear impressions
Each hearing aid is then custom fit and designed for the individual.
Real Ear Measurement: This computerized test measures how sound is changed as it travels through the ear canal. This information enables the manufacturer to custom design each hearing aid. "Real Ear" is also used to measure the exact signal you are receiving with the hearing aid. Your audiologist can then adjust the hearing aid accurately to fit your needs.
Earmold Impressions: An earmold or custom hearing aid should fit comfortably, be easy to insert, and allow the hearing aid to be used without feedback (whistling).
Hearing Aid Fitting & Orientation: Adjusting to a hearing aid takes time, support, and understanding. When the hearing aid is fit, your audiologist will discuss realistic expectations, listening strategies, and helpful communication techniques. The topics of how to use and care for the hearing aid will also be discussed. Family members or friends are always welcome at this appointment.
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A 30-day trial allows time to use the hearing aid(s) in everyday situations. Hearing aid checkups are scheduled within the thirty-day trial period to help solve any adjustment issues and to assess performance with the hearing aid. Your audiologist will make every effort to make hearing aid use a positive experience. However, should you decide not to keep the hearing aid, you may return it for a refund during the trial period.
Follow Up: Six-month follow-up appointments are scheduled. During these free visits, your hearing aids are checked, cleaned and analyzed by computer to ensure that they are functioning appropriately.
To protect your hearing aid and your full enjoyment of its use, we recommend yearly evaluations.
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Assistive listening devices, such as telephone amplifiers or infrared systems for television or theater are also available. These specialized devices can enhance communication and significantly improve the quality of life. Don't let a hearing problem affect your quality of life. Ask your primary care physician for a referral to Audiology Services at Southcoast Rehabilitation Services.
Audiology Services are Available at the Following Sites: Charlton Memorial Hospital 508-679-7135 TDD/TTY: 679-7026 and St. Luke's Hospital 508-961-5460. Call either site to set up an appointment or for more information.
Other Southcoast Rehab Services
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Use the list below to select another Southcoast Rehab service.
