If you have discovered that your child has a hearing loss there are professionals ready to offer support and guidance. Increasingly services for children with hearing impairment recognize and respect the role of the family. As parents your opinions and needs are of utmost importance. The family physician is the first port of call but you may meet a range of professionals who have different areas of expertise.
Below is a list of some of the people you may meet.
|
Audiologist
|
This is a healthcare professional who is trained in the practice of audiology (the science of hearing). An audiologist provides services related to prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of hearing impairment and associated communication problems. You may also meet a pediatric audiologist who has a subspecialty interest in childhood hearing impairment.
|
|
ENT physician
|
A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the ear, nose and throat. The ENT physician is usually the person who diagnoses a hearing loss. Otorhinolaryngologist, otolaryngologist and ENT surgeon are alternative names and this could vary depending on where you live. Your family physician will be able to advise you.
|
|
Speech-language pathologist, therapist
|
This is a healthcare professional who is trained to provide services related to prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of speech and language disorders.
|
|
Hearing instrument dispenser, acoustician
|
A healthcare professional who is trained in the practice of selecting and fitting hearing instruments.
|
|
Educational audiologist
|
This is an audiologist who has a special expertise in the hearing needs of children in all types of educational setting.
|
|
Pediatrician
|
A pediatrician is a doctor/physician who specializes in the care and development of children. Including the diagnosis and treatment of their health conditions and diseases.
|
|
Psychologist
|
A psychologist studies human behavior and can help you, your child or the whole family through a difficult period. Psychologists can also specialize in particular areas such as school or education.
|
|
