Do You Hear What I Hear? An Investigation of Bilateral and Unilateral Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder and Audiologists\u27 Recommendation for Hearing Technology Options

The purpose of this study was to investigate the hearing technology recommendations audiologists make for patients with either bilateral or unilateral Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder. The hearing technologies most commonly used with Auditory Neuropathy, including cochlear implants, hearing aids, remote microphone technology, and bimodal technologies. This research investigated the benefits, as well as concerns with all of the different technologies. Another purpose of this study was to investigate the communication relationship between audiologists and the caretakers of these patients regarding hearing technology. The researcher created a survey which included Likert-type questions, as well as open-ended questions that address the above-noted topics. Results of this study suggested there is much more research to be completed on this specific disorder, as well as the many treatment options available, due to the lack of agreement regarding what’s “best.” Audiologists also indicated that one of the major concerns with treating this population was the patient’s speech and language skills, supporting the idea for the need for a multidisciplinary approach to treating this disorder. By identifying and treating this disorder earlier in the child’s life, the child will ideally be fitted with technology options earlier and increase their potential for the most positive outcomes possible