Join the Discussion: Moving from Microaggressions to Cultural Humility – A Critical Discussion for Audiology Part 4 of 4 - Integrating a Framework of Cultural Humility
2022-10-24 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Join Us for the Discussion—Live and On-Demand
Academy Members Only (FREE)
Join the Discussion: Moving from Microaggressions to Cultural Humility – A Critical Discussion for Audiology Part 4 of 4 – Integrating a Framework of Cultural Humility
Duration: 60 minutes
Panelists:
Erica Friedland, AuD, Nova Southeastern University
Katie Colella, AuD, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Suzanne Wright Pak, AuD, Oticon, Illinois
Description:
In a four-part discussion series, the Academy will address the range of incivilities and microaggressions that audiologists and students may experience in their various practice and education settings. The series will give voice to real experiences while offering practical tools and strategies within each discussion to help move the profession holistically toward committing to cultural humility in practice. Part four of this series will provide discuss the framework of cultural humility and strategies for integration in audiology.
Learning Objectives:
1. Discuss different kinds of microaggressions that occur in audiology practice and education.
2. Explain the concept of a cultural humility framework.
3. Introduce a strategy for addressing microaggressions directly.
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Substance Use Disorders and the Vestibular System: A Rising Issue
2022-10-27 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter:
Amanda Chiao, AuD, PhD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge

Description:
The oto-vestibulotoxic effects of certain prescribed medications have been well known for decades. These include aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics, platinum-based chemotherapeutics, and some non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. However, case-reports and a few cohort studies suggest that substance misuse from illicit drugs, opioids, and alcohol also negatively affect vestibular and auditory function, and may have mechanisms similar to oto-vestibulotoxicity.
The literature, consisting mainly of single-study case reports, suggests that illicit and prescribed opioid drug misuse can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, and, more consistently, alcohol misuse impairs balance function (Moreira et al. 2012; Schmidt et al. 2010) but could affect the peripheral vestibular organs (Belle et al., 2007; Sasa et al., 1982), thus there is likely differential effects based on substance type and use patterns.
This presentation will provide snapshot of the existing literature, with an emphasis on the vestibular system, and discuss the practical approaches to vestibular assessment in patients with suspected substance misuse-related vestibular dysfunction.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe basic vestibular toxicity mechanisms and predisposing factors in adults.
2. Describe the existing literature on substance use disorders and the vestibular effects.
3. Identify vestibular testing modifications for patients with substance misuse histories.
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The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Final Rule: Implications for Audiology
2022-11-01 20:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Academy Members Only (FREE)
The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Final Rule: Implications for Audiology
Speakers:
Catherine Palmer, PhD
Professor and Interim Chair, Dept of Communication Science and Disorders
University of Pittsburgh; Chair, Academy OTC Resources Task Force
Patrick Gallagher, MBA
Executive Director, American Academy of Audiology
Tracy Murphy, AuD
Audiologist, North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab, IL; Member, Academy OTC Resources Task Force
Susan Pilch, JD
Senior Director of Government Relations, American Academy of Audiology
Angela Shoup, PhD
Ludwig A. Michael, MD, Executive Directorship of Callier Center
UT Dallas; Member, OTC Resources Task Force
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge

Description:
With the release by the FDA on the final rule for the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and their official entry to the market on October 17, audiologists need an understanding of the implications of the regulations for practice today. The final rule includes some changes from the proposed rule whereas other areas remained the same. The final rule offers a little more clarity in some areas, and in other areas, it does not.
Members of the Academy’s OTC Resources Task Force and staff will offer some clarifications and answers to assist members. The webinar will present the final, key take-home messages from the final rule and also will address unintended consequences, including the ambiguity of the prescription hearing aid terminology and the significance of outdated state laws. Speakers will provide the most current clarifications, resources to offer guidance, and strategies for addressing issues at the state level. Additionally, the webinar will touch on some key logistics for implementing OTC hearing aids into audiology practice.
Learning Outcomes:
1. List the key components of the final regulations for OTC hearing aids.
2. Compare and contrast unintended consequences from the OTC final rule relative to current audiology practice.
3. Plan for the advent of patients needing assistance with OTC hearing aids.
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Precepting Is a Verb: Strategies for Creating an Engaging Clinical Education Experience
2022-11-09 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter:
Jennifer Phelan, AuD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
Precepting is more than having a student follow you around in clinic. Precepting is an active endeavor where we support the growth of graduate clinicians. Each clinical encounter has the opportunity to expand their learning beyond the patient appointment. As clinical educators we are tasked with helping students become their own best clinical selves. This webinar will explore adaptive strategies to deepen student learning, way to help them self-assess their processes, and how we can assist them in making connections will be discussed. Practical strategies that can be implemented in any setting will be given.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Discuss how a preceptor can best support the growth of graduate clinicians.
2. Explore adaptive strategies for precepting that deepen student learning.
3. Discover how to assist students with self-assessment and making connections.
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Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Academy Leadership but Were Afraid to Ask
2022-11-16 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Academy Members Only (FREE)
Duration: 60 minutes
Speakers:
Sarah Sydlowski, AuD, PhD, MBA (moderator)
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Head and Neck Institute
Patrick Gallagher, MBA
Executive Director, American Academy of Audiology
Bopanna Ballachanda, PhD
Texas Tech Health Sciences Center
National Hearing and Balance Centers
Melissa Heche, AuD
New York Speech and Hearing

Devon Weist, AuD
University of North Carolina
Gail Whitelaw, PhD
Ohio State University Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
Description:
Have you ever wondered how to become a leader in the Academy? Do you wish you knew more about what happens “behind the scenes”? This session will provide timely information for Academy members on the various roles and responsibilities of leadership positions. Topics such as the nominations process, elections, and the personal and professional fulfillment resulting from being a leader of the Academy will be covered during the webinar.
Ever wonder who decides areas of Academy focus? What exactly do board members do when they meet? What is the difference between president-elect, president, and past president? How does being an Academy leader help me as an audiologist? Do they have a secret handshake?
Whether you have just started your audiology career or you have been practicing for many years, this webinar is not to be missed, as you are guaranteed to learn something new. How does one get nominated, how can I nominate someone, and why does any of this matter to me are all topics that will be covered. This is your opportunity to hear directly from current and past Academy leaders on their experiences and an opportunity to get your questions answered.
WE are the Academy. Every member has the opportunity to volunteer. Our volunteer leaders set the direction for the Academy. That means every member has the opportunity to set our course and influence the future of our profession. Attend this session to find out how you can get involved or how you can nominate leaders you want representing you.
Those who attend the entire session live will be entered in a drawing where one lucky member will receive $100 off the registration fee for the AAA 2023+HearTECH Expo, April 19-22, in Seattle, Washington.
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Incorporating Ototoxicity Management into Clinical Pathways
2022-12-14 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Speakers:
Angela Garinis, PhD
Carmen Brewer, PhD
Gayla Poling, PhD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge

Description:
Incorporating ototoxicity management into patient-centered care is feasible and critical for maintaining quality of life in patients at risk for hearing, balance and/or vestibular loss across the lifespan. Monitoring for ototoxicity provides the opportunity to obtain a pathophysiological description of the longitudinal effects of the ototoxic agent on an individual’s auditory and vestibular systems. This information also aids our ability to address each patient’s needs and the identification of clinical risk factors associated with the development of ototoxicity in unique populations. Thus, early identification, prevention, and mitigation of ototoxicity-related symptoms are recommended through the routine implementation of ototoxicity-monitoring protocols.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify current national guidelines and published consensus statements for ototoxicity monitoring protocols.
2. Discuss current gaps and barriers for implementing a successful ototoxicity management program across diverse clinical populations.
3. Describe screening measures and mobile technologies for potential use in an ototoxicity management program.
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OTC Hearing Aids: An Opportunity for Collaboration Between Audiologists and Pharmacists
2023-01-26 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Special Promo Price for Academy Members: $25
Speakers:
Lucas Berenbrok, PharmD
Elaine Mormer, PhD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
This program will introduce over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids as an opportunity for audiologists and pharmacists to collaborate in hearing care. The primary roles and scopes of practice of audiologists and pharmacists will be reviewed. Historical, current, and futuristic models of collaboration between audiology and pharmacy will be discussed.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Introduce OTC hearing aids as an opportunity for collaborative practice between audiologists and pharmacists in local communities.
2. Review the roles and scopes of practice for audiologists and pharmacists in the United States.
3. Discuss historical, current, and futuristic collaborative working relationships between audiologists and pharmacists in the context of hearing care.
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Advocacy Update 2023: Challenges and Opportunities
2023-02-07 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter(s):

Lee Cottrell, AuD, Chair, Academy Federal and State Relations Committee

Susan Pilch, JD, Senior Director of Government Relations, American Academy of Audiology

CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
2023 promises to be an active year in federal and state advocacy encompassing a myriad of topics including reintroduction of the Medicare audiology bill, implementation of “limited” direct access in Medicare, and expansion of the number of states participating in the ASLP-IC (interstate licensure compact). This CE-eligible webinar will feature the chair of the Federal and State Relations Committee as well as Academy staff as presenters who will outline the challenges and opportunities for audiology that lie ahead in 2023.
Learning Outcomes:

Describe current political power dynamic in Congress (Republican/Democrat).
Summarize the status of the joint audiology bill (Academy, ADA, and ASHA).
List the top issues in audiology expected to be discussed in state legislatures.

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AAA 2023 + HearTECH Expo
2023-04-19 08:00 - 2023-04-22 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Seattle Convention Center—Arch Building, 705 Pike Street, Seattle, 98101-2310
Seattle is a city home to innovation and has been at the forefront of visionary adaptations from music to technology and industry. This is a fitting host for the conference as audiology adapts to patient care in a post-COVID world.
We are entering a new era of audiology with the introduction of government-regulated over-the-counter hearing aids, new research on pharmacological treatments for hearing loss, and promotion of the full range of critical services provided by audiologists and how our community intersects with many other health care professions.
The conference is your professional home where audiology is put first. Here, we will provide you with information, resources, connections, and tools that you can use immediately back home to adapt to this new reality and keep your practice setting up to date.
You won’t be Sleepless in Seattle! At AAA 2023+HearTECH Expo, you’ll be buzzing from top-notch education igniting your passion for your profession, exciting and fun networking opportunities where you’ll meet new people, cool hands-on activities, and much, much more.
We’ll see you in Seattle for AAA 2023+HearTECH Expo, April 19-22.

Audiology in Skilled Nursing Facilities and Assisted Living Facilities
2023-04-24 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter(s): Kathy Dowd, AuD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUsDuration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
State and federal laws in the United States mandate hearing services for residents of skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. The incidence of hearing loss and risk of falls is great in this population due to high numbers of chronic diseases, trauma, and medications that affect both hearing and balance. This webinar will describe the important processes to initiate hearing health-care services, and serve residents to help them communicate, socialize, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Learning Outcomes:

Discuss how to initiate hearing health-care services in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities.
Identify important processes that will help residents of these facilities communicate, socialize, and experience a better quality of life.

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An Evidence-Based Foundation for Prescribing Advanced Hearing Aid Feature Settings
2023-05-31 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Erica D. Koehler, AuD

CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
Evidence-based guidelines for setting and verifying gain in hearing aid fittings are well established, but currently, best-practice recommendations for advanced settings are not. The purpose of this presentation is to provide audiologists with guidance for setting advanced features in the hearing aid during the fitting based on scientific literature in combination with readily available information collected during a case history. This presentation will provide a seasoned clinician with helpful tips to improve their fittings but will also include a brief overview of advanced hearing aid features so no experience is necessary.
Learning Outcomes:
1. List examples of advanced features that could be modified based on patient characteristics.
2. Identify different hearing aid user characteristics that could drive advanced feature settings.
3. Describe the importance of a good first fit and the need for follow-ups.
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Integrating Trauma-Informed Approaches to the Audiology Setting
2023-06-05 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Integrating Trauma-Informed Approaches to the Audiology Setting
June 5, 5:00-6:00 PM EDT
Many service providers are making the move toward providing trauma-informed care, with some states even requiring that models be trauma- informed within agencies. This presentation will define trauma and trauma-informed care from a service provider’s perspective and review several examples of how trauma may show up in a service environment.
We will discuss unique factors impacting individuals and families in the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community including medical traumas and systemic/cultural traumas. Participants will review guidelines from SAMHSA publication, Key Ingredients for Successful Trauma-Informed Care (2016) and be given practical guidelines for creating safety for those who have experienced traumas. This will include reviewing the role of consent as a service provider, how to make treatment clear and predictable, and creating emotional safety through open communication. Participants will leave with a better understanding of the concept of trauma, how it continues to impact future services provided, and how to make small changes in their approaches with patients while keeping these ideas in mind.
Learning Outcomes
1. Define and review key symptoms of trauma.
2. Discuss the six Key Ingredients of Successful Trauma-Informed Care (SAMHSA).
3. Identify several ways in which audiologists can improve their practice by providing trauma informed care.
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Assessing and Addressing Social Determinants of Health as a Part of Pediatric Hearing Health Care
2023-07-13 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Nicole Schuller, AuD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in the places where we live, learn, work, and play that can impact health outcomes. They include socioeconomic factors such as education and income, the physical environment, and health behaviors that impact overall health and quality-of-life outcomes. The objective of this presentation is to provide an overview of how one pediatric hospital implemented a screening protocol to assess social determinants of health in their patient population. This hospital is screening for unmet social needs to remove barriers and help families connect to community resources, help children become healthier by addressing things in their environment that impact health, and ensure that every child/family has access to care and can be their best self.
Learning Outcomes:
1. List examples of social determinants of health.
2. Describe how social determinants of health can impact pediatric hearing health outcomes.
3. Examine ways to remove barriers and help families connect to community resources.
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The Perils of Using Untrained Interpreters and Translated Materials with Spanish Speakers
2023-07-31 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Edward Garcia, AuD
Laura Gaeta, PhD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
This webinar will provide audiologists with information about considerations when working with Spanish-speaking adult patients with hearing loss. It will discuss assessment procedures, health literacy concerns, and the inclusion of interpreters in the clinical setting. Recommendations for culturally and linguistically appropriate communication and service provision with this population will also be given. Focus will be on audiologists who experience a language barrier or mismatch with their Spanish-speaking patients.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe considerations when working with Spanish-speaking adult patients.
2. Apply recommendations for creating Spanish written materials in the clinic.
3. Assess the need for and use of interpreters in the clinic.
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Teaching the Alphabet: Supporting LGBTQ+ Students in the Classroom and Clinic
2023-08-08 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
J. Riley DeBacker, AuD, PhD
Aaron M. Roman, AuD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
A diverse professional workforce has been shown to add additional perspectives, promote growth in a profession, and improve access to and quality of care. Recruiting and retaining diverse students is an essential part of creating a more diverse workforce and supportive academic and clinical learning environments are essential to these efforts. This session will introduce original research on supporting sexual and gender minority (SGM) audiology students alongside best practices suggested in other fields. Guided group discussions will be used to identify strategies for implementing these practices in audiology programs and clinical placements to support students.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe current clinical and didactic outcomes for audiology students, including how they vary across demographic groups.
2. Apply knowledge from other disciplines and participants’ own experiences to support diverse students in their environment.
3. Analyze clinical and classroom situations that present opportunities for bystander intervention and demonstrate ways to support students in these situations.
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2023 Membership Meeting
2023-09-12 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
2023 Virtual Membership Meeting
September 12, 7:00-8:00 pm ET
The virtual membership meeting will feature reports from Academy leadership, including a message from the Academy President, Virginia Ramachandran, AuD, PhD, advocacy updates and other initiatives; and an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and engage with the leadership.
Register Now!
Questions about the membership meeting can be sent to membership@audiology.org.
Let us know which topics you would like to learn more about and discuss during the meeting by filling out this quick one question survey.
Take Survey

Using Malpractice Claim Data to Identify Risks in Audiology Practice
2023-09-20 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Jennifer Flynn, CPHRM
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
This session will address audiologists’ most common professional liability concerns, including emerging risks and ways that audiologists can protect themselves from liability exposures. Utilizing HPSO/CNA’s database of audiology closed professional liability claims, we can identify liability patterns and trends, we can highlight adverse events that resulted in financial loss or expenses, and we focus on the types of situations most likely to have serious adverse consequences for patients and create liability exposures for audiologists. Using this information, audiologists can examine their own current practices in relation to the claims and losses experienced by their peers.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify three top malpractice allegations made against audiologists in malpractice lawsuits.
2. Define total incurred amounts to defend audiologists in malpractice lawsuits.
3. Identify key risk management tools that audiologists can incorporate into their practices to help improve patient safety, enhance quality of care, and reduce risk and error.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: A Specialty Practice in Physical Therapy
2023-10-02 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Angelica Taylor, PT, DPT
Zahilly Salinas, PT, DPT
Eileen Garay, PT, DPT
CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:

This course is designed to facilitate understanding the role physical therapists can play in the care of patients with vestibular conditions and fostering collaborative interdisciplinary education. The aim of this presentation is to help audiologists identify the types of diagnoses treated by physical therapy and have familiarity with the examination, evaluation, and treatment of patients with vestibular conditions. Following this presentation, audiologists will confidently know when it is appropriate to refer their patients to physical therapists with advanced training in vestibular rehabilitation for proper care.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify the types of vestibular pathologies/diagnoses treated by physical therapists, as well as recognizing appropriate referrals.
2. Recognize the components of the physical therapy examination and evaluation.
3. Familiarize themselves with current clinical practice guidelines by physical therapists as well as treatment goals, techniques, and outcome assessments.
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Case-Based Options for Coding Audiology Services
2023-10-19 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Erin L. Miller, AuD
Anna M. Jilla, AuD, PhD
Annette A. Burton, AuD
CEUs: 0.15 AAA CEUs
Duration: 90 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:

Currently, many payers do not provide coverage to their beneficiaries for all services within audiology’s scope of practice. Some payers only cover medically necessary hearing and balance assessment services with no coverage provision for therapeutic services. Additionally, most payers do not cover the assessment and management services performed by audiologists, which are necessary for quality patient care. Audiologists must be knowledgeable of payer-specific policies for those with whom they contract and determine if their reimbursement covers the cost of providing the service. This session will discuss case-based coding/payment options for audiologists to consider when providing non-covered audiology services.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe alternatives for coding of audiology services that fall outside of those currently defined by the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT)™ code set.
2. Identify ethical and legal options to code for non-covered audiology services.
3. Summarize how coding for non-covered audiology services can elevate the value of audiology services to consumers.
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Academy Research Conference 2023: Next Generation Inner-Ear Therapies
2023-10-27 08:00 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Available On-Demand Through January 14, 2024!
The live event was held on October 27, 2023, but you can still register for the on-demand content through January 14, 2024.
Register for On-Demand!
Chair: Colleen Le Prell, PhDCo-Chair: Gayla Poling, PhD
The fields of audiology and hearing science are vastly advancing. Nearly a quarter of Americans older than 12 years of age are estimated to have some degree of hearing loss. As most older adults will experience hearing loss, inner-ear regeneration and cell therapies would significantly expand remediation options beyond amplification devices alone.
Research indicates that inner-ear protective and regenerative therapies are promising and could lead to significant changes in audiological management. Multiple therapeutics are currently under evaluation in animal models and human clinical trials, with the potential for new medicines thus on the horizon.
This virtual conference aims to describe the current state of these therapies and provide future expectations for clinicians providing hearing-related services.
Agenda

8:00–8:15 am
Welcome–Background and Introductory Session
Bopanna Ballachanda, PhD, Academy President
Colleen Le Prell, PhD, ARC 2023 Program Chair

8:15–9:00 am
Developing and Testing Therapies for the Inner Ear
Colleen Le Prell, PhD, University of Texas at Dallas

9:00–9:45 am
Cisplatin Ototoxicity and Its Prevention
Lisa Cunningham, PhD, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

9:45–10:00 am
Break

10:00–10:45 am
Gene Therapies for Childhood Hearing Loss
Karen Avraham, PhD, Tel Aviv University

10:45–11:30 am
Panel Discussion/Questions

11:30 am–12:00 pm
Selected Industry Presentations

12:00–1:00 pm
Lunch Break

1:00–1:15 pm
Welcome – Advanced Session
Gayla Poling PhD, ARC 2023 Program Committee Co-Chair

1:15–2:00 pm
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and its Prevention
COL Samuel Spear MC USAF. Chief, DOD Hearing Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency. Joint Base San Antonio, TX
LTC Isaac Erbele MC USA. Chief of Neurotology, Associate Program Director, Brooke Army Medical Center, Joint Base San Antonio, TX

2:00–2:45 pm
Aminoglycoside Ototoxicity and its Prevention
Angela Garinis, PhD, National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research (NCRAR)

2:45–3:00 pm
Break

3:00–3:45 pm
Beyond the Audiogram: Lessons from Clinical Trials
Victoria Sanchez, AuD, PhD, University of South Florida

3:45–4:30 pm
The Audiologist in the Next Generation of Inner-Ear Therapies: From Devices to Drugs
Angela Shoup, PhD, Callier Center for Communication Disorders/University of Texas-Dallas

4:30–5:15 pm
Panel Discussion/Questions

5:15–5:30 pm
Closing Remarks
Colleen Le Prell, PhD, ARC 2023 Program Committee Chair

Hearing Accessibility Solutions: Achieving Successful Communication for All
2023-11-15 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Samuel R. Atcherson, PhD
Mary Rose Bethel, AuD
Melissa A. Ferrello, AuD
Sarah A. Sparks, AuD

CEUs: 0.1 AAA CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Beginner
Program Focus: Knowledge

Description:

This session will highlight hearing accessibility as a critical part of the patient experience in clinical settings that audiologists have a unique perspective and responsibility to uphold. The meaning behind and clinical applications of hearing accessibility will be discussed, along with debunking misperceptions in practice. In addition to providing education and tools to improve communication access for patients, this session will evaluate the important role audiologists have to model hearing accessibility in all situations, not just with patients. Through open-ended panel discussion, this session will provide information and practice on accessible communication with colleagues, students, and the general public. Discussion and audience participation will include how to use one’s audiology education to proactively put hearing accessibility into practice in all areas of communication, how to know one’s own limitations, and providing resources to seek out when further help is needed. This session will share information on how to be an expert in this area for your patients, evaluating your level of accessibility and how to make your own practice/work setting hearing accessible for patients from the front desk to your assistant to other colleagues, how to implement tools and best practices, and ways to model forms of hearing accessibility to demo in your office with patients.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Evaluate the effects of and solutions to common misperceptions about hearing accessibility.
2. Describe 2-3 changes hearing health professionals can implement in their clinic right away to improve hearing accessibility.
3. Integrate 2-3 communication strategies in all environments to ensure interactions with patients, colleagues, graduate students and office staff are accessible.
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The Value of Rotational Chair in the Vestibular Test Battery
2023-12-18 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Courtney Kolberg, AuD

CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
This session aims to help guide clinicians in understanding the utility of rotary chair in the diagnosis and management of complex vestibulopathy. Relevant anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system will be reviewed, followed by a discussion of rotary chair assessments. Expected test results will be discussed in the context of underlying anatomy to differentiate between peripheral and central vestibular impairments, to determine level of compensation, and to explore the value that each measure adds to the overall test battery. The session will include an interactive discussion of pertinent case history and interpretation of results. Clinical case examples will be used to supplement the presentation and to synthesize the information discussed.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe rotational chair testing and its various clinical applications.
2. Differentiate between peripheral and central vestibular impairments, as well as compensated versus uncompensated vestibular lesions.
3. Discuss how rotational chair assessments add value to the overall test battery and contribute to the diagnosis of complex vestibulopathy.
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Mental Health First Aid for Patients Across the Lifespan
2024-01-17 08:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Ursula Findlen, PhD
Kaitlyn Kennedy, AuD
Devon Weist, AuD

CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:

Hearing loss is known to coincide with a host of health-related issues, including mental health. Audiologists need be able to identify when emotional and psychological well-being is at risk in both the patients we serve and their close family members, who also are affected by these diagnoses.
This session will review models for delivering difficult information, the signs of potential mental health crisis, and discuss how to handle conversations surrounding mental health. Didactic cases from across the lifespan will be presented to highlight themes and differences when working with different populations.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Summarize signs of potential mental health problems and how to handle conversations when a mental health challenge or crisis is suspected.
2. Identify different triggers for children, adolescents, and adults.
3. Apply tools and resources shared in this session to their own clinical practice.
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Music Audiology: Hearing Care for Special Ears
2024-01-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Brian J. Fligor, PhD
Frank Wartinger, AuD
CEUs: 0.1 AAA/Tier1 CEUs
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
Musicians and entertainment industry professionals constitute a special population that faces an elevated risk of hearing injuries. Their hearing health is closely tied to both vocational success and avocational fulfillment. This session will clarify best practices in the specialty of music audiology and delineate the distinctive practice settings and opportunities inherent in this field. Special focus will be placed on the role of general-practice audiologists in the care of music industry professionals with hearing testing, fitting of custom hearing products, and follow-up care.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Discuss the significance of hearing health for both vocational success and avocational fulfillment in the context of music professionals.
2. Identify the atypical clinical settings where music audiologists operate, including music venues and telepractice.
3. Compare recommended best practices in music audiology with standard audiological care.
Register Now

Advocacy Update 2024: Challenges and Opportunities
2024-02-01 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
FREE to Academy Members!
Presenters:
Lee Cottrell, AuD, Chair, Federal and State Relations Committee, American Academy of Audiology
Susan Pilch, JD, Senior Director of Government Relations, American Academy of Audiology
CEUs:0.1 AAA/Tier 1 CEUs
Duration:60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
2024 promises to be an active year in federal and state advocacy. This webinar will provide the latest information on the “state of play” in Congress, the status (and prospects of) the Medicare audiology bill, as well as expected “hot topics” in state legislatures in the New Year.
Free to Academy members, this CE-eligible webinar will feature the chair of the Federal and State Relations Committee as well as Academy staff as presenters who will outline the challenges and opportunities for audiology that lie ahead in 2024.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe current political power dynamic in Congress (Republican/Democrat).
2. Summarize the status of the joint audiology bill (AAA, ASHA, and ADA).
3. List the top issues in audiology expected to be discussed in state legislatures.
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The Balancing Act of Chronic Disease, Dizziness, Vertigo, and Falls
2024-02-22 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenters:
Richard Gans, PhD
Sara Jagger, AuD, PhD
CEUs:0.1 AAA/Tier 1
Duration:60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
Vestibular evaluation and management have changed dramatically along with better understanding of conditions that cause dizziness and imbalance and new diagnostic tests. Most audiologists had little vestibular coursework and rotations during their university training, but audiologists are critical components of the multi-disciplinary assessment of dizziness and imbalance. The focus of this session is to understand vestibular conditions, diagnostics, and treatment through a case study approach. Topics covered include updates on clinical practice guidelines for vestibular and non-vestibular conditions, diagnostic test options, and creating and maintaining good relationships with referring providers.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify symptoms related to vestibular and non-vestibular causes of dizziness.
2. Differentiate the principles of available vestibular tests.
3. Describe effective vestibular report writing and communication with referring providers.
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Understanding Metabolic Syndrome’s Relationship to Chronic Diseases Comorbid with Sensorineural Hearing Loss
2024-03-21 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Victor Bray, MSC, PhD, FNAP
CEUs: 0.1 AAA
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
It is well established that several chronic diseases (a) are preceded by metabolic syndrome, (b) are increasing in prevalence in the geriatric population, and (c) associated with the increased odds ratio of sensorineural hearing loss. While much of our literature and communications have focused on the relationship between chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and adult-onset diabetes) and hearing loss, little attention has been given to the underlying cause of these chronic diseases: metabolic syndrome. It is essential that the audiologist understand, for improved patient management, the five contributors of metabolic syndrome and their relationship with hearing health.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Recall the five contributors to metabolic syndrome.
2. Understand the relationship of metabolic syndrome with chronic disease, sensorineural hearing loss, and sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
3. Be able to apply knowledge of the relationship of metabolic syndrome with hearing loss to better communicate with medical professionals in the collaborative care of audiology patients with chronic diseases and counsel patients toward a healthy lifestyle.
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Empowering Audiologists, Students, and Communities to Reduce Health Inequities
2024-04-12 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Sonia Gupta, MPH, MBA
CEUs: No CEUs Awarded
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Introductory
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
This presentation introduces webinar participants to United Against Inequities in Disease (UAID) and its Community Project Model.
Founded in 2009, UAID is a national 501c3 nonprofit organization that aims to both reduce health inequities in local communities today and also empower public health leaders of tomorrow. It focuses its efforts on local communities, conducts work in collaboration with local partners, and leverages the power of research and an interdisciplinary approach to health equity to affect sustainable change.
The UAID Community Project encapsulates UAID’s philosophy, values, and approach. It is an effort to achieve a meaningful, positive impact on health outcomes in their local community on a longitudinal time scale. Through this model, participants have an opportunity to practice public health principles. Specifically, they gain experience in utilizing mixed research methods, assessing health issues on the local level, and in planning, implementing, and evaluating long-term projects.
Webinar attendees will learn how students and practicing audiologists can reduce health inequities in their own local communities through UAID and its Community Project Model.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Understand how students and practicing audiologists can reduce health inequities in their local communities ethically and sustainably.
2. Explain how the eight-step UAID Community Project Model works.
3. Apply UAID’s Community Project Model to reduce health inequities in the field of audiology within their own local communities.
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AAA 2024 + HearTECH Expo
2024-04-17 08:00 - 2024-04-20 17:00 (America/New_York) | Atlanta, Georgia, Atlanta, GA, United States

Beyond the Booth: Deep Dive into Energy Management—Techniques for Sustained Productivity
2024-05-07 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Presenter: Alena Conley, MBA, PPP
CEUs: 0.1 AAA
Duration: 60 minutes
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Program Focus: Knowledge
Description:
Dive deeper into the art of energy management with “Deep Dive into Energy Management: Techniques for Sustained Productivity,” a webinar designed to empower you with the skills to identify your personal energy peaks, understand your circadian rhythms, and utilize restorative practices. This session goes a step further by teaching you how to achieve flow states throughout your day using the Pomodoro Technique, a proven method for maintaining focus and enhancing productivity. Learn to strategically align tasks with your natural energy levels and incorporate focused work sessions to not only boost productivity but also to achieve a more fulfilling work-life balance.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Analyzing: Analyze personal energy patterns and circadian rhythms to identify optimal times for engaging in tasks that require high cognitive effort, setting the stage for achieving flow states.
2. Applying: Apply the Pomodoro Technique as a tool to structure work periods and breaks, facilitating the entrance into flow states during periods of peak energy, thereby maximizing focus and minimizing fatigue.
3. Creating: Develop a comprehensive energy and time management plan that incorporates strategies for aligning tasks with energy peaks, using the Pomodoro Technique to enhance focus, and incorporating restorative practices to sustain productivity. This plan aims to optimize work output while maintaining energy and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
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