As you begin your journey toward better hearing, you may come across two types of licensed professionals: a hearing instrument specialist (HIS) and an audiologist. While both play important roles in hearing care, their training, expertise, and scope of practice are quite different.
In this article, we’ll break down what each professional does, how they differ, and how they can work together to support your hearing health.
What Does a Hearing Instrument Specialist Do?
Hearing instrument specialists—sometimes referred to as hearing aid dispensers or fitters—are trained and licensed to help individuals with hearing aid solutions. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Evaluating hearing for the purpose of hearing aid selection
- Fitting and dispensing hearing aids
- Taking ear mold impressions
These professionals work closely with patients to find hearing aids that match their lifestyle, preferences, and budget. They also provide ongoing care, including adjustments, maintenance, and troubleshooting, to ensure your devices continue to perform at their best.
What Does an Audiologist Do?
Audiologists hold advanced clinical degrees and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. Their services typically include:
- Comprehensive hearing and balance evaluations
- Diagnosis of hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance conditions
- Treatment recommendations, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other interventions
Audiologists take a broader medical approach, identifying underlying causes and developing treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
What’s the Key Difference?
The main difference lies in scope of practice. Hearing instrument specialists focus on evaluating hearing for hearing aid use and providing fitting and follow-up care. Audiologists, on the other hand, are qualified to diagnose and treat a wider range of auditory and balance conditions.
Can You Work with Both?
Absolutely. In many cases, the best care comes from a collaborative approach.
A hearing instrument specialist can guide you through selecting, fitting, and maintaining your hearing aids, while an audiologist can provide in-depth testing, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend additional treatment options if needed.
When Should You See a Hearing Instrument Specialist?
If you’re looking to be fitted for hearing aids, need adjustments, or want help maintaining your devices, a hearing instrument specialist is a great resource. However, if you’re experiencing new or worsening hearing concerns, tinnitus, or balance issues, it’s important to see an audiologist for a comprehensive evaluation.
Your Hearing Care Team at Cardinal Hearing Center
At Cardinal Hearing Center, our team is trained to provide the personalized care you deserve. Our staff is training to become hearing instrument specialists to support you with hearing aid fittings, adjustments, and ongoing care—especially when our audiologists may not be immediately available.
No matter where you are in your hearing journey, we’re here to help you stay connected to the sounds that matter most.
📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com
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