What Patients Say About Their Hearing Aids: Patient-Centered Interview

By Martha W. Wilson

This article is a part of the January/February 2018, Volume 30, Number 1, Audiology Today issue.

History intakes and patient interviews can be a complex, but enjoyable process. In the first article on this topic, “What Patients Say: Patient-Centered Interview,” audiologists and student clinicians were encouraged to invite and listen to each patient’s story about their feelings and the impact of their hearing loss (Wilson, 2015). We must ask the right questions, actively listen to the responses, and carefully document the comments to understand the patient’s presenting complaints and concerns about hearing difficulties.

Audiologists must comprehend each patient’s story to carefully, thoroughly, and competently assess, treat, and care for the individual. Comments from patients and their family members were presented, in their own words, describing hearing difficulties, experiences, and feelings about their hearing loss (Wilson, 2015).

Patients continued to share their heartfelt opinions and descriptions about their experiences with their hearing aids and related technology. Clinicians are encouraged to carefully listen and accurately document the patient’s comments, concerns, and issues. Britton (2005) reminds us that listening is not a passive activity, but a learned behavior that requires skill and practice. According to Nitzky (2016), “we…must be fully engaged, fully focused on the patient during the time they are   with us.”