Programs and Educational Sessions

Educational sessions at AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo are designed to provide attendees with a range of opportunities to learn best practices and up-to-date trends and strategies that focus on elevating patient care through evidence-based practice as well as scientific enrichment, career development, and professional networking.

Below, you will find information about Featured Sessions and Grand Round presentations, Discussion Forums, a New! Professional Development Series, as well as Wednesday-only Learning Labs, and more.

All sessions below include CEUs, except the Student Academy of Audiology Conference.

Learning Labs ($)

Wednesday-only, in-depth, cutting-edge information on hot topic areas designed to be interactive, these 3.5 hour learning labs will offer you hands-on exercises with appropriate clinical practices.

Presented by leaders in the field of audiology and/or associated professions, these sessions are offered at an additional cost of $100 to your conference registration ($150 for non-members). Seating is limited and is first-come, first-serve, so be sure to secure your spot as soon as registration opens on November 7 for Academy members. All Learning Labs SOLD OUT in 2023, so don’t delay!

Cerumen Management Workshop: Navigating Your Way Out of a Sticky Situation

Presented by Sam Bittel, AuD

Audiologists should be well versed in cerumen removal, particularly as the entry point for vestibular/hearing health care. As autonomous practitioners, managing cerumen is a crucial skill. This two-part didactic and hands-on workshop will provide the foundation/knowledge needed to become competent in cerumen management. This lab will cover the anatomy/physiology of the ear canal, cerumen properties, technical aspects of removal, managing incidents, infection control, state regulations, and billing. The second portion includes a demonstration of removal techniques/equipment and ends with hands-on experience.

Verifying Advanced Features for Patient Satisfaction

Presented by Lindsey Jorgensen, AuD, PhD

Supporting our patients' needs and concerns goes beyond our hearing evaluations and initial fittings. Our patients have specific complaints and concerns and it's the audiologist's job to address these through feature selection. We will focus on discussing the advanced features necessary to meet our patients' needs and how to verify that these features are working correctly.

Falls Prevention

Cognitive Screenings in Practice

Presented by Karah Gottshalk, AuD, PhD

Research trends over the past few decades have suggested some type of relationship between hearing loss and cognitive changes. This growing literature has prompted audiologists to start completing cognitive screeners in clinics. Before completing these screeners on patients, it is vital to understand cognitive domains, changes noted with age, and the different types of cognitive screeners that are currently utilized.

This session will include information about the six different cognitive domains, normal versus non-normative cognitive changes with age, and current cognitive screenings that are available. Additionally, there will be a hands-on session on completing and grading cognitive screeners.

Optimization in Cochlear Implant Programming Using Electrically Evoked Stapedial Reflex Threshold (ESRTs) Measurements

Presented by Sandra Velandia, AuD

There are multiple programming methods in cochlear implants (CIs), without consensus on the standard of care. Patients who are deaf with longstanding hearing deprivation, pediatrics, and the elderly may have difficulty judging loudness and pitch due to a lack of auditory memory or sound reference. Therefore, setting upper stimulation levels based on their judgments may prove to be ineffective. This may lead to under or over-stimulation that can also affect patient satisfaction, quality of sound, and speech outcomes.

Recent research and clinical experience at high-volume cochlear implant clinics, including the University of Miami, have found that patients programmed based on eSRTs are not only more comfortable in terms of loudness but also yield improved speech discrimination scores when used appropriately. In addition, it is important to properly set lower stimulation levels, as access to low-level speech cues must also be considered. The measurement of threshold levels not only allows providers to enhance the capacity of CI recipients' comprehension of soft speech, especially in challenging listening scenarios encountered in daily life, but also reduces cognitive effort in the recipients' listening activities throughout the day.

Featured Sessions and Grand Rounds

These 90-minute sessions are a popular staple of the AAA Annual Conference and focus on contemporary topics presented by leaders in the field of audiology, hearing science, and related professional areas. The Program Committee invites presenters for these sessions based on their expertise in given topic areas.

Grand Rounds

Adult Diagnostics
Thursday, April 18, 8:15–9:45 am
Moderated by Jodi Baxter, AuD

Amplification
Friday, April 19, 7:45–9:15 am
Moderated by David Jedlicka, AuD

Cochlear Implants
Thursday, April 18, 4:30–6:00 pm
Moderated by Camille Dunn, AuD

Older Adults
Friday, April 19, 2:15–3:45 pm
Moderated by Barbara Weinstein, PhD

Pediatrics
Saturday, April 20, 8:00–9:30 am
Moderated by Kaitlyn Kennedy, AuD

Vestibular
Friday, April 19, 4:15–5:45 pm
Moderated by Chizuko Tamaki, AuD, PhD

Featured Sessions

The Rewiring Brain in Hearing Loss

Presented by Anu Sharma, PhD

Wednesday, April 17, 12:45–2:15 pm

A better understanding of changes in the brain accompanying hearing loss will allow us to improve intervention and rehabilitation in patients with hearing loss. Hearing loss in children and adults results in significant changes in cortical neuroplasticity, reflecting patterns of cross-modal compensation from vision and somatosensation, increased listening effort, and cognitive deficits. Timely and appropriate treatment with amplification and/or electric stimulation may reverse cross-modal plasticity, coinciding with gains in cognitive performance and speech perception. Changes in neuroplasticity after treatment with prescription hearing aids, over-the-counter hearing aids, and cochlear implants will be discussed.

Translational Research: From Hearing Science to Hearing Aids

Presented by Adam Svec, AuD, PhD

Wednesday, April 17, 2:30–4:00 pm

Psychoacoustic measures have been used to describe the dynamic range and the frequency selectivity of the auditory system, both of which have largely driven the development of hearing aid feature sets for decades. In this featured session, we will look at how both dynamic range and frequency selectivity have been assessed in academic research and then implemented in hearing technology, as well as recent developments within psychoacoustics that might potentially illuminate a future path for hearing technology.

Beyond the Audiogram: Embracing Diversity in Patient Communication

Presented by Laura Gaeta, PhD

Thursday, April 18, 8:15–9:45 am

This session will cover cultural variables identified in underrepresented populations, health literacy, readability of written materials, speech recognition with non-native speakers of English, and working with interpreters. Participants will learn practical strategies to enhance communication with patients in diverse settings. Topics related to cultural competence and cultural awareness in health care will also be discussed.

Join us for an informative and provocative session designed for business managers and owners to expand their knowledge and skills for building a successful private practice. Dr. Gyl Kasewurm will share how she grew her single office in a small town in Michigan to almost $4 million in gross revenue. Topics will include simple steps to improve profitability and productivity and how to empower employees and unique approaches to marketing. Attendees will walk away with proven strategies and tactical tools they can put to use immediately upon arriving home to take their practice to the next level.

Coding and Reimbursement in Review: 2023-2024

Presented by Speakers TBD

Thursday, April 18, 2:30–4:00 pm

This session will provide an overview of audiology-related coding and reimbursement changes that have occurred since the last AAA Annual Conference. We will provide updates on the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, review and give updates on limited direct access provisions under Medicare, provide information on new CPT codes for services related to auditory osseointegrated devices, and discuss relevant changes under the Medicare Quality Payment Program. Attendees will be given resources for continued learning.

Proven Strategies for Growing and Building the Profitability and Productivity of a Private Practice

Presented by Gyl Kasewurm, AuD

Thursday, April 18, 4:30–6:00 pm

Understanding the Fatigue Factor: Measuring and Managing Listening-Related Fatigue

Presented by Ben Hornsby, PhD

Friday, April 19, 7:45–9:15 am

Fatigue is a ubiquitous experience. However, when severe it can negatively affect the quality of life. Despite its prevalence and impact, until recently, research examining fatigue and hearing loss has been lacking. Research suggests that severe fatigue is more common in those with hearing loss—although why this occurs remains unclear. This presentation examines the construct of “listening-related” fatigue (LRF) in adults and children with hearing loss. Methods for measuring and managing listening-related fatigue are also discussed. Improving our understanding of LRF is an important step toward developing, and assessing measurement tools and treatment options to reduce its negative effects.

Marion Downs Lecture in Pediatric Audiology
The Journey to Universal Screening for Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection...the EHDI Experience, and It’s “Déjà Vu All Over Again”
Sponsored by the William Demant Foundation

Presented by Mark Schleiss, MD, and Angela Shoup, PhD

Friday, April 19, 9:45 am–11:15 pm

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is the most common infectious cause of developmental disabilities, including congenital sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) caused by cCMV may be absent at birth and hence will be missed by newborn hearing screen. Up to 25 percent of all childhood hearing loss is caused by cCMV. Newborn screening for cCMV could enable early detection of delayed-onset and progressive SNHL, but the question of whether universal screening for this infection should be standard-of-care is controversial.

Like the early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) journey, targeted cCMV screening was initiated at individual hospitals and has since been mandated by some states. In February 2023, Minnesota became the first state to institute universal cCMV screening. Knowledge of cCMV status helps plan appropriate management of the identified infant and in providing family support. This session will discuss the viral and immunological pathogenesis of cCMV, strategies for prevention, screening models, value of early diagnosis, and long-term management imperatives for this common but under-diagnosed infection.

Avoiding Workplace Burnout: Best Practices for Staying Engaged

Presented by Nadine Kaslow, PhD

Friday, April 19, 2:15–3:45 pm

This session will begin by discussing the concept of “burnout,” including how it presents itself, risk and protective factors, and impact. Attention will then be paid to the importance of resilience and wellness. Personal strategies for enhancing one’s sense of well-being will be highlighted, including engaging in self-care; caring for the physical, mental, and spiritual self; practicing mindfulness and self-compassion; planning for balance; and building moral resilience. Organizational best practices for improving the work culture for reducing burnout and increasing people’s resilience and sense of well-being will be delineated.

Hearing Aids in Review: 2023

Presented by Catherine Palmer, PhD; Gus Mueller, PhD; and Ryan McCreery, PhD

Friday, April 19, 4:15–5:45 pm

This session will be a moderated panel discussion of the current evidence base in amplification spanning the range of selection, fitting, verification, and outcome assessment across the lifespan. The three presenters review the literature from the previous year (2023) that focused on amplification and present the articles they believe will impact your practice on Monday morning.

Ethical Considerations for A Changing Audiology Landscape

Learning Modules, Mini Modules, and Research Podiums

In addition to our invited featured sessions, grand rounds, and learning labs, we will feature more than 100 submitted presentations for a comprehensive educational overview.

Session categories will include Academic Education, Adult Diagnostic, Amplification and Assistive Devices, Career/Personal Development, Clinical/Preceptor Education, Electro/physiology, Geriatric, Hearing Loss Prevention, Implantable Hearing Devices, Legal/Ethical/Professional Issues, Neuro-Audiology, Pediatric, Practice Management, (Re) habilitation and Counseling, Research, Tinnitus and Hypercusis, and Vestibular. More details will be unveiled soon and be on the lookout for the release of our Online Conference Planner in early 2024.

Beyond the Booth Series: A Blueprint for Career Growth and Leadership Development

Wednesday, April 17, 10:30 am–2:45 pm

You spoke, we listened! Through recent Academy membership feedback and AAA Annual Conference survey results, the Academy, your professional home, has heard you loud and clear. You’ve told us you want, and need, training to help you in your professional and/or leadership development and growth…particularly those of you that are newer to the profession and are seeking strategies and advice for advancing your career. To address this need, the Academy is hosting a series of professional development education on Wednesday at AAA 2024 in Atlanta called “Beyond the Booth.” This will be followed by online learning throughout the year on eAudiology.

Click here to see detailed information on this series.

A successful career requires ongoing professional development. When you go through professional development training, you are showing a commitment to your role and loyalty to your organization. Professional development also can help you feel confident in your abilities and the value you provide to the workplace.

So, exactly what is professional development? Professional development is the process of improving skills and gaining knowledge that will help you continue to find success in your role and even develop the skills you may need to get a promotion or change positions. While highly applicable to newer professionals, professional development should be something you actively do throughout your career so you can stay up-to-date and perform at your best.

Professional development not only includes training courses, but networking opportunities to build connections with like-minded colleagues and mentors who can help guide you in your career. Ongoing professional development helps you become a well-rounded professional-one that is engaged and motivated, but one that also has a healthy work-life balance, avoiding burnout and succeeding not only in the workplace, but at home.

The Academy is here to help foster your professional development journey and provide you with the tools and experiences you need to excel in your career. In our all-new educational series, “Beyond the Booth Series: A Blueprint for Career Growth and Leadership Development,” we’ll kick things off at AAA 2024 on Wednesday, April 17. Attendees are invited to participate in a dedicated time-block of sessions focused on professional development best practices, skills enhancement, and leadership strategies to help you grow and thrive as a professional in the field of audiology. CEUs will be provided for each of the topics, so you can choose which areas are of most interest to you. “Beyond the Booth” will continue after AAA with online learning opportunities on www.eAudiology.org so stay tuned for more information as programming is developed.

Topics that may be addressed include communication skills, how to negotiate effectively, being a valuable team member, management/leadership training, critical thinking and problem-solving, conflict resolution, time management, mastering change in the workplace, stress management, and more.

Advancing Research in Audiology: A Collaborative Session

Thursday, April 18, 1:00–2:00 pm

This session will feature invited guests discussing select research priorities and grant opportunities, for individual research and clinical-academic partnerships. Large group and small table discussions will be relevant to both the seasoned researcher and the audiologist who is just getting started in research.

Discussion Forums

Thursday, April 18, 3:00–4:00 pm

Amplification
Moderated by Erin Picou, AuD, PhD

Vestibular
Moderated by Jamie Bogle, AuD

Friday, April 19, 2:15–3:15 pm

Pediatrics
Moderated by Shelley Moats, AuD

Practice Management
Moderated by Lana Joseph-Ford, AuD

Discussion Forums are innovative and collaborative sessions that will further engage attendees to build connections and share best practices. Think of the Discussion Forums as specialty group rooms that are led by one session moderator and appeal to those attendees who are interested in discussing broad-based issues with like-minded professionals in the area of pediatrics, practice management, vestibular, and amplification.

Attendees will sit at round tables of eight or 10 and the session moderator will open the session by posing several questions/guided talking points for the tables to consider and discuss. After approximately 45-minutes, the moderator will close the session and call on volunteers at tables to share what was discussed at their tables and what solutions they came up with based on the questions posed at the beginning of the session. Although the main subject matter to be discussed is led/guided by the session moderator at the top of the session, the best practices and solutions shared at the table come down to you! The moderator will be available throughout the session to help tables as needed. CEUs will be earned for attending a Discussion Forum.

A Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Workshop:
Current Issues

Friday, April 19, 1:00–2:00 pm

The DEIB Committee is providing a collaborative opportunity and networking session for audiologists to come together to identify current issues and challenges to a culture of inclusiveness in audiology. The session will include an introduction of select topics with brief presentations, as well as large and small group discussions. The workshop will conclude with simulations of potential situations involving microaggressions that preceptors, students, and clinicians may experience along with how to address these situations in a safe and respectful manner for all parties involved.

Clinical Education Forum—Say the Words Plain: Health Literacy in and out of the Audiology Clinic

Saturday, April 20, 8:30–10:30 am

A growing body of evidence demonstrates poor health literacy leads to poor health outcomes. Patients must comprehend provided information to take action on their health.

The Academic and Clinical Education Resources (ACER) Committee offers an engaging forum showcasing health literacy techniques to support student learning and enhance audiology practice. The first part will feature presentations of critical content and key resources, and in the second part, the audience will jump into exercises and games to practice strategies for removing jargon from practice, simplifying material, and guiding instruction for in-clinic and after-care. Come try ACER Health Literacy Taboo and other fun activities!

Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) Conference ($)

Sponsored by Starkey.

Scheduled for Wednesday, April 17, the SAA Conference provides in-depth and hands-on education and experiences to supplement audiology program curriculum offered across the nation. Open to undergraduate associates and graduate students only, there is an additional registration fee to attend the SAA Conference of $45.

Learn More