When you choose a hearing clinic, you’re trusting professionals with an important part of your health care. Just like checking reviews for a new restaurant or reading about a doctor’s background, understanding a hearing clinic’s accreditations helps you make confident decisions about your hearing care.

We know that looking at certifications and credentials can feel overwhelming, but these qualifications tell you what level of care and expertise you can expect. Your hearing needs are unique, and finding a clinic with the right specialties and training ensures you’ll get care that matches those needs.

What is a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS)?

A hearing instrument specialist is a trained professional who specializes in the selection, fitting and maintenance of hearing aids and other assistive hearing devices. They help individuals with hearing loss improve their quality of life through personalized hearing solutions. They are trained to conduct hearing tests to assess the degree of hearing loss and use that information to recommend the best hearing solutions. Based on the results, a HIS will help you choose the most suitable hearing aid model for your specific needs, taking into account your lifestyle, preferences and budget.

In addition to fitting and programming hearing aids, a hearing instrument specialist ensures that the devices are properly adjusted to maximize comfort and performance. They provide ongoing support, including regular maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs, to ensure that your hearing aids continue to function well over time. A HIS also educates patients on the proper care and use of their hearing devices, helping them get the most out of their hearing aids and improve their overall hearing experience. Through these services, hearing instrument specialists play a key part in helping individuals manage their hearing loss and improve their ability to communicate.

These professionals also provide valuable follow-up services, like regular cleanings, troubleshooting and repair. They also assist with educating patients on how to properly care for and maintain their hearing devices, ensuring that wearers get the best performance out of their aids. Hearing instrument specialists often develop close relationships with their clients, offering guidance and support throughout the hearing aid wearing process, making them an essential part of a comprehensive hearing care team.

What Training Do Hearing Instrument Specialists Have?

Hearing instrument specialists (HIS) undergo specialized training to develop the expertise necessary to assess, fit and maintain hearing aids and other assistive hearing devices. Their training typically includes a combination of classroom education and hands-on experience, focusing on the technical, clinical and customer service aspects of hearing care.

Training programs for HIS typically cover topics like hearing basics, ear anatomy for fittings and the different degrees of hearing loss. They also learn about the various types of hearing aids, how to program them and the latest technology used in the field. Additionally, HIS are trained in hearing tests, interpreting results and understanding how to adjust hearing aids for optimal performance based on those results. These professionals also receive training in hearing aid repairs, maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure they can address any issues that may arise with the devices.

Many states require HIS to complete a formal certification program, which may involve completing an accredited training course, passing a written exam and obtaining practical experience. Some HIS also pursue additional education and certifications to stay current with advances in hearing aid technology and further develop their skills. This ongoing learning helps them continue providing the best possible care for their patients.

What Does Georgia Require of a HIS?

In Georgia, to become a hearing instrument specialist (HIS), individuals must meet specific state requirements set by the Georgia State Board of Hearing Aid Dealers and Dispensers. These requirements are designed to ensure that HIS professionals are properly trained and qualified to fit and maintain hearing aids and assistive listening devices.

To begin the process, candidates must complete a training program that is accredited by the National Institute for Hearing Instruments Sciences or an equivalent program. The program typically includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in areas like hearing anatomy, hearing aid technology, testing procedures and device maintenance. In addition to completing the educational program, candidates are also required to complete a specified number of hours of supervised clinical experience, which provides practical, real-world exposure to working with hearing aid patients.

After completing the required education and clinical hours, candidates must pass a written examination and a practical skills test administered by the Georgia State Board of Hearing Aid Dealers and Dispensers. These exams assess knowledge in areas like hearing aid fitting, audiometric testing, troubleshooting and patient care. Once the exams are successfully completed, candidates can apply for licensure to work as a hearing instrument specialist in Georgia.

Additionally, HIS professionals in Georgia are required to complete continuing education on a regular basis to maintain their licensure. This ensures that they stay up to date with the latest advancements in hearing aid technology and best practices in hearing care.

How Can You Find the Right HIS?

Finding the right hearing instrument specialist (HIS) begins with considering personal recommendations. Given that hearing loss is a common issue, it’s very likely that someone you know has worked with an HIS. Asking friends and family about their experiences can provide valuable insights. They can tell you about their own visits, how well their needs were met and which specialists they would recommend. This can help you get a sense of the care, flexibility and services you might expect from an HIS.

Another helpful resource is your primary care physician. Since you already have an established relationship with your doctor, they can be a trusted guide in the search for a hearing instrument specialist. Your doctor can provide recommendations based on their knowledge of hearing professionals in your area and offer suggestions that align with your specific hearing needs. Having a professional recommendation from someone you trust adds an extra layer of confidence as you begin your search.

If personal recommendations aren’t available, the internet is a powerful tool for finding hearing instrument specialists in your area. A simple search using terms like “hearing instrument specialist” along with your location will bring up a list of professionals. Be sure to explore each specialist’s website to gather information like office hours, services provided and the qualifications of the staff. This allows you to make an informed decision before scheduling an appointment.

Questions to Ask Your Potential Specialist

When you’re looking for a hearing instrument specialist, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you find someone who meets your needs. Start by inquiring about their qualifications and experience. Ask how long they’ve been practicing and if they have experience working with patients who have hearing loss similar to yours. It’s also a good idea to ask about the specific types of hearing aids they specialize in and whether they offer a range of models, styles and features to fit your preferences.

Another important aspect to discuss is the process for selecting and fitting hearing aids. Ask about how they determine the best hearing aid for you, what tests will be conducted and how the fitting process works. You should also inquire about the level of follow-up care and support they provide, including adjustments, maintenance and repair services. Additionally, ask whether they offer ongoing services, like cleaning, programming and troubleshooting your hearing aids as your hearing needs change.

Qualities to Look for in a Specialist

When choosing a hearing instrument specialist (HIS), it’s important to look for certain qualities to ensure you receive the best care for your hearing needs. First and foremost, the specialist should have strong communication skills, making it easy for you to ask questions, express concerns and fully understand your hearing needs and treatment options. A good HIS should be patient, empathetic and attentive, listening to your experiences and helping you feel comfortable throughout the process.

Experience and expertise are also key qualities to consider. You want a HIS who has a solid background in fitting and maintaining hearing aids and other assistive devices, with the ability to customize solutions that fit your lifestyle and preferences. Additionally, a good HIS should be knowledgeable about the latest advancements in hearing technology, as this can play a significant role in finding the right solution for your hearing needs. They should also have a genuine interest in helping you improve your quality of life, taking the time to ensure you are satisfied with your hearing aids and services.

Are There Specialties in Hearing Care?

In the field of hearing care, there are several specialties that focus on different aspects of hearing and balance. For example, presbycusis is the medical term for age-related hearing loss, which is common as individuals get older. Specialists in this area are skilled in managing and treating the gradual hearing loss that occurs with age, helping patients adjust to their changing hearing needs. They provide strategies for improving communication, including the use of hearing aids and other assistive technologies, to enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Another important specialty is pediatric hearing care, which addresses hearing loss in children. These specialists focus on early detection and intervention, ensuring that children with hearing challenges receive the necessary support for speech and language development. Balance specialists, who work with patients experiencing dizziness or unsteadiness, play an important role in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the inner ear, like vertigo.

Tinnitus specialists focus on managing the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears, offering various therapies to help patients cope with this often debilitating condition. Each of these specialties ensures that individuals receive tailored care to address their specific hearing and balance concerns.

Find Your HIS Today

Your hearing health is too important to entrust to just anyone. Consider reaching out to professionals who have demonstrated their competence through rigorous education and training. At Belcher Hearing Aid Service, we pride ourselves on our dedication to delivering quality services backed by a wealth of industry knowledge.

To schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, reach out to one of our convenient Georgia locations:

Columbus: (706) 405-4655
LaGrange: (706) 407-4003

A Guide to Understanding Hearing Clinic Accreditations