When you start looking for help with your hearing in Boca Raton, you will find two kinds of professionals: audiologists and hearing aid specialists. Both can test your hearing and fit hearing aids, and both are licensed by the State of Florida. So who should you see?
The answer depends on what you need. Here is a plain-English guide to the differences.
What Is an Audiologist?
An audiologist is a hearing healthcare professional with graduate-level training in audiology. Today, most audiologists earn a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), a clinical doctorate that includes years of coursework and supervised clinical experience. In Florida, audiologists are licensed through the Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.
Audiologists typically provide:
- Comprehensive diagnostic hearing evaluations
- Assessment of the type and degree of hearing loss
- Tinnitus evaluation and management
- Hearing aid selection, fitting, and programming
- Referrals to physicians when a medical issue is suspected
Audiologists are not medical doctors. If your evaluation suggests a medical condition, such as an infection or sudden hearing loss, an audiologist will refer you to an ENT or your primary care doctor.
What Is a Hearing Aid Specialist?
A hearing aid specialist, sometimes called a hearing instrument specialist, is licensed in Florida through the Board of Hearing Aid Specialists. To earn a license, candidates complete a supervised training program and pass state licensing exams, and they must keep up with continuing education.
Hearing aid specialists focus on:
- Testing hearing to determine whether hearing aids can help
- Recommending and fitting hearing aids
- Programming and fine-tuning devices
- Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs
- Ongoing support as you adjust to new technology
Audiologist vs. Hearing Aid Specialist at a Glance
| Audiologist | Hearing Aid Specialist | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical education | Graduate degree, usually Au.D. | Training program and state exams |
| Florida licensing | Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology | Board of Hearing Aid Specialists |
| Hearing tests | Comprehensive diagnostic testing | Testing for hearing aid fitting |
| Hearing aids | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Complex or unexplained hearing issues, tinnitus, deeper evaluation | Getting, fitting, and maintaining hearing aids |
When to See an Audiologist
- Your hearing loss is in one ear only, or it seems uneven
- You have ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in your ears
- You want a full diagnostic picture before deciding on treatment
- Your hearing has changed and you are not sure why
Important: If you notice a sudden drop in hearing, especially in one ear, seek medical care right away. Sudden hearing loss is treated as an urgent condition, and early treatment matters.
When a Hearing Aid Specialist Is a Great Fit
- You already know you have gradual, age-related hearing loss
- You are ready to try hearing aids or want to upgrade
- Your current hearing aids need repairs, cleaning, or reprogramming
The Best of Both Under One Roof
At Renowned Hearing Centers, you do not have to choose. Our hearing aid specialists work alongside our audiologist, Dr. Shelley W. Minsky, Au.D., so you get the right level of care for your needs, from your first hearing test through years of follow-up.
Talk With a Local Hearing Expert
Still not sure who you should see? Start with a conversation. Renowned Hearing Centers offers free hearing tests and consultations in Boca Raton and throughout Palm Beach County, in our office or at your home. Our team includes experienced hearing aid specialists and audiologist Dr. Shelley W. Minsky, Au.D.
Call (561) 288-5360 or schedule your appointment online.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical, legal, or insurance advice. Talk with your healthcare provider or plan about your specific situation.
