Audiologist vs. Hearing Aid Specialists

In the state of Florida, both audiologists and hearing aid specialists hold state licensure which allow the practitioner to sell and dispense hearing aids. The requirement for state licensure is based on the need to protect the well-being of the patient. While both types of professionals are licensed to work with hearing aids, the steps necessary to obtain licensure are significantly different between professionals.

Audiologist

At minimum, audiologists complete an undergraduate and graduate training program and a supervised clinical fellowship prior to obtaining state licensure. Since 2007, audiologists have been required to obtain a clinical doctorate, known as the Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology) degree, before entering the profession. The transition to the Au.D. degree reflects the increasing scope of practice for audiologists, and the need for further training given the major advances in technology and professional responsibilities. During their Au.D. program, most audiologists complete clinical rotations in a wide variety of practice settings, including hospitals, private clinics, schools, and industrial settings. Before obtaining state licensure, audiologists must pass a national examination of core competencies is the diagnosis and management of hearing and balance disorders.

Audiologists now complete at least 8 years of college before being eligible to practice (4-year undergraduate degree, 4-year Au.D. program).