Going Above and Beyond for Consumers

Since 1999, the American Board of Audiology has awarded board certification to qualified audiologists who voluntarily choose to obtain it. 

By meeting the ABA’s high standards of excellence, 1,600 board certified audiologists in the United States and around the world have proven they possess:
     

• Exceptional Knowledge
• A Lifelong Commitment to Learning
• Professional Ethical Practice

As recognized experts, board certified audiologists are passionate about advancing their knowledge and skills. The winning combination means their patients benefit from the latest and utmost in hearing and balance care!

To become board certified, audiologists undergo rigorous credential review. Today’s applicants must have a doctorate degree in audiology (AuD or PhD), pass a national exam, and have completed 2,000 hours of serving patients under the guidance of an experienced audiologist mentor.

Applicants also must adhere to the ABA Code of Ethics and the accepted Scope of Practice in audiology. Also, every three years, board certified audiologists must complete 60 hours of continuing education.

Audiologists with expertise in a unique subject area can also choose to obtain specialty certification from the ABA. Since 2005, some 60 audiologists have become Board Certified with a Specialty in Cochlear Implants. In addition, the ABA is currently in the process of developing a specialty in pediatric audiology. This is exciting news for children and their parents!

Consumer Benefits

The personal benefits of having a board certified audiologist are meaningful and many:

On the Leading Edge of Technology

Hearing technology is changing fast and ever-improving, and the most suitable devices can make a significant difference in a person’s life. Therefore, it is important for a consumer to have an audiologist who keeps up with the latest treatments and who is devoted to learning contemporary practices. Besides improving as a health-care professional through continuing education classes, many board certified audiologists also explore new knowledge areas by teaching, conducting research, writing articles, and serving the profession in other ways.

Early Identification of Hearing Loss Is Critical

The earlier a person’s hearing or balance disorder is accurately evaluated, diagnosed, and treated the better his/her results—especially for children. Ears are complex organs. Hearing is crucial to verbal communication, reading skills, and social and emotional well-being. Balance is critical to the quality of daily living and mobility. With time being precious, a patient needs to be seen by a leader in the profession who has the experience to address all his/her hearing and balance needs and who can map out the most effective treatment plan for him/her. With a dedicated board certified audiologist, consumers can be confident of reaching their maximum potential.

To Find a Board Certified Audiologist

Just click here for our ABA Directory by U.S. state. Or to find those who have Specialty Certification in Cochlear Implants, click here for our CI Directory.

To Obtain More Information About Hearing Loss

Visit the Consumer Web site of our affiliate the American Academy of Audiology: www.HowsYourHearing.org.