OutcomeData

OurMotivation:OutcomeDatainAudiology

Outcome data in audiology suggests that advances in technology and hearing aids have not led to significant improvements in patient outcomes.

According to the MarkeTrak VIII study, although hearing aids have improved and benefitted significantly from the digital revolution, quality control at the point of dispensing hearing aids has not kept pace with technological improvements. The study found that patients with below-average success scores were less likely to receive counseling from the hearing care professional or ancillary counseling tools, such as auditory retraining software, self-help material, or referral to a self-help group. 

See:  Kochkin S, Beck DL, Christensen LA, Compton-Conley C, Kricos PB, Fligor BJ, McSpaden JB, Mueller HG, Nilsson MJ, Northern JL, Powers TA, Sweetow RW, Taylor B, Turner RG. "MarkeTrak VIII: The impact of the hearing healthcare professional on hearing aid user success". Hearing Review. 2010;17(4):12-34.