Hearing Matters Podcast

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How can the modernization of audiology transform patient care and professional practice? Join us as we welcome Dr. Alicia Spoor, president of Designer Audiology, who shares her inspiring journey and insights into the ever-evolving field of audiology. From her educational experiences to the influence of mentors like Dr. Craig Johnson, Dr. Spoor sheds light on the significant advancements driven by the Maryland Academy of Audiology, emphasizing the importance of advocacy for both patients and professionals.

Explore the groundbreaking changes brought about by the 2023 FDA final rule on over-the-counter hearing aids, and how these regulatory updates are reshaping the landscape of audiology. Dr. Spoor and the Maryland Academy of Audiology have been instrumental in pushing for the inclusion of terms like evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat into legislative language. We discuss the anticipated modifications set to take effect in October 2024 and what they mean for audiologists practicing to the full extent of their training. The conversation also highlights how practices in the military and other countries serve as models for the U.S. healthcare system.

Reflecting on over 35 years of evolution in audiology, Dr. Beck addresses the challenges and triumphs in expanding the scope of practice, from cerumen removal to the authority to recommend MRIs. Legislative advocacy remains a pivotal theme as we dive into the integration of comprehensive health screenings and the collaborative efforts required for effective patient care. Celebrate the collective persistence and dedication that have paved the way for these advancements, and be inspired to champion similar successes in audiology across various states.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Unlock the mysteries behind dizziness, vertigo, and lightheadedness with renowned experts Dr. Douglas Beck and Dr. Joseph Sakumura. Join us as we explore how the different sensations of movement can reveal underlying vestibular disorders. Dr. Sakumura details the critical role of nystagmus in differential diagnosis, guiding us through the nuanced process of identifying whether a vestibular disorder is peripheral or central, and how the direction of nystagmus can indicate the affected ear.

Discover the nuanced differences between vestibular neuritis and Meniere's disease. We'll unpack how herpes simplex virus contributes to vestibular neuritis, leading to sudden and severe vertigo, in contrast to the recurring episodes of Meniere's disease. Our conversation also tackles the challenge of distinguishing these conditions from migraines, which often manifest with similar symptoms. Expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic hurdles faced by healthcare professionals in this complex area of vestibular health.

Our final focus is on Meniere's disease and endolymphatic hydrops, exploring their shared symptoms and the diagnostic criteria from the Barany Society. Dr. Sakumura shares insights into the use of electrococleography (ECOG) for evaluating endolymphatic hydrops and discusses the intricate surgical approaches for Meniere's disease treatment. We also dive into the cautious prescription of vestibular medications like Meclizine, stressing the necessity for accurate diagnosis before treatment to ensure effective patient care. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that promises to deepen your understanding of these critical topics in vestibular health.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Email: [email protected]

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Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Can Apple's AirPods Pro 2 truly compete with traditional prescription hearing aids? 

In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, we offer an in-depth look into the FDA approved Apple AirPods Pro 2 as potential over-the-counter hearing aids. We address the technical differences, including latency issues, fit, battery life, costs and more.

Drs. Darrow and Beck discuss the social stigma traditionally associated with wearing hearing aids, and the potential for trendy alternatives like AirPods to shift public perception and make hearing aids more socially acceptable. This episode delivers a compelling discussion on affordability, accessibility, and much more!

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Imagine escaping a war-torn country as a child and later dedicating your life to transforming healthcare. Dr. Dung Trinh shares his heartfelt journey from Vietnam to the forefront of Alzheimer's care, emphasizing the urgent need to shift from a reactive "sick care" system to a proactive health-focused approach. Through his personal experiences and professional insights, Dr. Trinh highlights the critical importance of early detection and prevention in managing cognitive decline.

As we navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care, Dr. Trinh provides a first-hand account of the challenges faced by patients and their families. He discusses the transition from healthy independence to extensive care and the significant burden placed on family caregivers. We also address the growing difficulty in securing home health and nursing home care, advocating for better early detection and preventative measures to alleviate these pressures.

This episode underscores the pivotal role of lifestyle choices in preventing chronic diseases like Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. We explore the importance of annual memory assessments for those over 65, the role of primary care physicians in prevention, and the latest advancements in FDA-approved medications targeting amyloid plaques. Join us for a comprehensive discussion on the power of lifestyle changes and early intervention in combating major health issues.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Unlock the secrets to preserving cognitive health and enhancing quality of life with insights from Dr. David Fabry of Starkey and groundbreaking research studies. This episode promises to shed light on the intricate connections between hearing loss, cognition, and comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Learn how untreated hearing loss can exacerbate cognitive decline in at-risk populations, especially older adults, and discover the potential benefits of hearing amplification from key studies like the ACHIEVE study from Johns Hopkins.

Ever wondered why speech in noise testing is crucial for diagnosing cognitive disorders and hearing loss? Dr. Beck shares his perspective on the limited efficacy of current drugs targeting amyloid plaques. We shift the focus to audiology, underscoring the importance of cognitive screening as a standard practice. Learn how poor speech-in-noise scores correlate with increased dementia risk and why comprehensive testing should be a priority, despite common resistance due to time constraints.

Get practical advice on best audiology practices with actionable tips you can implement right away. Discover the simplicity of administering quick and effective speech in noise tests using Mead Killian's grading scale. We also discuss the importance of cognitive screenings for older patients and those with significant hearing loss. Finally, explore valuable resources available on the Hearing Matters podcast to support hearing health and maintain meaningful communication as we age. Join us for an episode packed with vital information to help you better address hearing and cognitive health for yourself or your loved ones.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Discover the critical difference between hearing and listening with Dr. Nina Kraus, an acclaimed expert from Northwestern University. Explore her interdisciplinary journey into the biological bases of language and the fascinating role of bird song in auditory research. Dr. Kraus also shares insights from her book, "Of Sound Mind," which celebrates the profound connection between sound and brain health, making complex concepts accessible to everyone.

Uncover the latest advancements in hearing technology, including bone conduction devices that are transforming auditory experiences for musicians and everyday users alike. We discuss the advantages of bone conduction headsets and AirPods with ambient mic features, offering practical advice on choosing the right hearing aid or headset. Additionally, learn about the importance of hearing protection with innovative tools like the 3DME, and understand the broader health impacts of constant noise exposure in our modern world. This episode merges cutting-edge science, technology, and actionable tips to enhance your auditory experiences and protect your hearing health.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

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Ever wondered if in-ear monitors (IEMs) can truly safeguard a musician’s hearing? This episode promises to uncover that truth. Join us as we welcome Dr. Melissa Heche, an eminent audiologist, musician, and sound engineer, who dispels the myths surrounding IEMs. Dr. Heche, who has trained with Mike Santucci at Sensaphonics, provides an expert perspective on why IEMs are not standalone hearing protection devices and highlights the essential tools and practices for effective hearing conservation among musicians.

Transitioning from traditional floor wedges to IEMs can be a daunting experience for many musicians, often leading to feelings of isolation. Dr. Heche and Dr. Beck tackle this issue head-on, discussing personalized mixes, ambient microphones, and the benefits of click tracks, all aimed at creating a more comfortable and safe auditory environment. Drawing from Dr. Heches' experiences performing in New York, we delve into the practical benefits of IEMs for musicians at all levels, from students to seasoned professionals, emphasizing how these devices can help prevent hearing damage even in the loudest of stage environments.

Choosing the right IEMs is pivotal, and Dr. Heche walks us through the process, from detailed audiological evaluations to the setup and management of these devices. For those just starting out, we provide tips and recommendations for selecting the best IEMs to meet their needs. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide packed with expert advice and valuable resources to enhance your auditory health and performance.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Ever wondered how to shift your focus from hearing better to communicating better? In our latest episode, we are joined by Shari Eberts, a passionate hearing loss advocate and co-author, who shares her heartfelt journey with hearing loss, which began in her mid-20s. Influenced by her father's struggles, she opens up about accepting her hearing loss, facing societal stigma, and the power of maintaining a positive mental attitude. Tune in as we explore her empowering approach to managing hearing loss and the pivotal role of embracing vulnerability.

Shari discusses the creation of her book "Hear and Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss," co-authored with Gael Hannan. Listen as she shares her excitement about fulfilling her dream of writing a book and how it serves as a gentle first step for those hesitant to seek professional help. We talk about finding the right hearing healthcare provider and the importance of proactive hearing loss management to avoid social isolation and enrich one's quality of life. Her heartfelt advice will inspire you to take that crucial first step toward reconnecting with the people, places, and activities you love.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Dr. Jack Katz, a luminary in audiology, shares his extensive journey from a childhood marked by otitis media to becoming a trailblazer in auditory processing disorders. This episode is a treasure trove of insights as Dr. Katz recounts his academic and professional milestones, enlightening us on the evolution of audiology and his lasting contributions to the profession.

Listeners will be fascinated by our discussion on the correlation between middle ear problems and auditory processing and the serendipitous creation of the Staggered Spondaic Word (SSW) test, a key diagnostic tool that emerged from a chance conversation with an ENT in the early 1960s). Dr. Katz's recollections of using Bekesy audiometry and other early diagnostic tools offer a captivating look at how audiology has progressed over the decades, underscoring the importance of continuous innovation.

As we honor Dr. Katz's, we also explore the significant advancements in audiology education and practice. Dr. Katz's personal stories, including the manual indexing of the first Handbook of Clinical Audiology by his wife, Irma, add a heartfelt dimension to the conversation. We celebrate his remarkable 69-year marriage and his enduring contributions to the field, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the history and future of audiology.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

Support the show

Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

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Unlock the latest insights into over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids with our special guest, John Dicken, Director for Healthcare at the GAO. This episode promises to shine a light on the newly FDA-approved OTC hearing aids, featuring an in-depth discussion on their availability and the rising consumer interest. Discover the challenges in tracking OTC sales data and the potential for these devices to create new markets for those with mild to moderate hearing loss without diminishing the prescription hearing aid industry. We also debunk common myths about hearing loss and explore the nuanced differences between hearing and listening problems.

Click here to read and/or download the GAO's OTC Hearing Aid Report.

Explore the intriguing dynamics of affordability and stigma associated with hearing aids. Did you know that despite OTC options being priced from $200 to over $1,000, and prescription aids costing several thousand dollars, stigma significantly impacts people’s willingness to use them? We reference studies showing that even in countries where hearing aids are free, many still opt out. Our conversation highlights the crucial role of professional guidance in selecting hearing aids and how private practices can provide affordable solutions, ensuring a balanced approach between OTC accessibility and expert support in tackling hearing health issues.

Our discussion touches upon the importance of ongoing market evaluation, and how Medicare Advantage plans and the Department of Veterans Affairs are navigating these challenges. Tune in for John Dickens’ valuable expertise, particularly his insights on making OTC hearing aids a viable, cost-effective option.

While we know all hearing aids amplify sounds to help you hear them, Starkey Genesis AI uses cutting-edge technology designed to help you understand them, too.

Click here to find a provider near you and test drive Starkey Genesis AI!

Support the show

Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast