Doctor of Audiology and a hearing aid dealer

What’s the difference between a Doctor of Audiology and a hearing aid dealer?

Hearing aid dealers or dispensers are licensed by a state or provincial board. Their range of studies includes audiogram (hearing test) interpretation, prescribing appropriate hearing aids and a complete understanding of how hearing aids function. Their training focuses solely on audiometric testing and hearing aid fitting.  

Audiologists have either a master's or doctorate degree in audiology. Audiologists who sell hearing aids must also be licensed by the state or province they practice in.

Audiologists have a greater knowledge of human hearing and balance than other hearing professionals. They study the intricate designs and workings of the entire human ear and the physics of sound and hearing. Audiologists don’t perform ear surgery or prescribe treatment for diseases of the ear.

Please call for a consultation, 218-454-EARS (3277).

Have a great day!

Dr. Sarah Nelson