Deciding you need to see an audiologist is a big decision. Once you’ve made the commitment you’re faced with the task of actually finding an audiologist to visit. If you aren’t sure how to find a good audiologist or where to even begin the search, don’t worry. Here are 3 easy-to-use resources to help you find an audiologist.
Search the internet
The first and easiest place to start your search is the world wide web. Whether you fire up Google, Bing, or use Duck Duck Go as your search engine, just do a web search for audiologists. Search engines are smart enough to show you the audiologists in your area first. Once you’ve got a list of audiologists, start narrowing them down. Look at their websites to determine:
Services provided at the office
Office hours and locations
Professional affiliations
Also, pay attention to whether the audiologist keeps the site up-to-date with current information. An out-of-date website may indicate an out-of-date audiologist. If the site contains patient reviews, take the time to read the patient stories. They provide valuable insight into how a practice operates. You can also search Yelp for patient reviews and recommendations.
Get recommendations
Ask your primary care physician for a recommendation. Your doctor usually has a wealth of information about other medical professionals in the community. Don’t stop there. Be sure to ask family members, friends, neighbors and co-workers for a recommendation. Don’t just ask who to see, ask why they are making the recommendation.
Professional associations
It’s important to find an audiologist that is committed to keeping current. One method audiologists use to keep up with new technology and medical advancements is through continuing education provided by professional associations. So, you want to find an audiologist that is active in professional associations. You can find this information online while you are searching audiologist websites. The American Academy of Audiology website has a search for audiologists by city and state or by ZIP code. The American Speech Language Hearing Association not only lets you search for audiologist members, it also allows you to verify their credentials online.