The Audiology Success Blueprint is uniquely designed for audiologists who are struggling with feeling overwhelmed and want to feel less drained, while not sacrificing their success. At the end of the day, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of what makes you tick and a clear roadmap for success for you and/or your business. Learn more and register here.

The Gold Circle Music audiology class is based on the famed Sensaphonics Gold Circle Seminar, and teaches the evidence-based knowledge, skills, and practices required for successful outcomes when working with musicians, sound engineers, crew, and concert-goers. Gold Circle members are listed on our website as preferred providers of Sensaphonics custom products.

This course aims to help participants better understand the benefits of vestibular diagnostics and how to appropriately incorporate this much needed area of practice into everyday clinical care.

• Understand the patient population and opportunity for care
• Learn about revenue generation vs cost and clinical efficiencies to improve reimbursement and patient care
• Learn about the other opportunities vestibular diagnostics can provide for providers and how they can leverage these tools to increase patient volume and revenue

1. Attendee will be able to explain how not practicing cultural sensitivity might interfere with our patient relationships around the world
2. Attendee will be able to identify our own unconscious bias when working with patients in our practices
3. Attendee will be able to discuss how the culture of poverty is different from the culture of middle class and upper class in the US and the effect this has on our patients who live in a lower socioeconomic sector.

A common misconception is that as your practice grows, your time shrinks. If you're doing it right, the reality becomes that as your business grows, your time improves and your freedom expands. This session will not only teach you how to experience rapid growth in your practice by doing less, not more, but will also provide five specific moves you can follow to accomplish it. Join me in this engaging session to solve your growth, time, and profit challenges.

1. Describe a time-saving strategic growth path
2. List 5 actionable strategies that lead to rapid growth
3. Describe activities that will assist them in creating a more profitable practice

In this course, panelists will share and discuss current innovations in hearing healthcare with a focus on artificial intelligence in both diagnostics and devices, care delivery, hearing devices and hearables, and hearing conservation tools.

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, recently released an advisory on the epidemic of loneliness, a pressing public health issue confronting our nation. Murthy emphasized that social connections are protective and are independent risk factors for conditions ranging from cardiovascular disease to dementia. He discussd the import of investing in health care provider education on the benefits of social connections as well as the risks of social disconnections and its impacts on well-being. By integrating social prescribing/connections into preventive care and primary care, he argued that we can help prevent selected forms of social disconnection and can help to mitigate early feelings of isolation and loneliness. The evidence linking social connections to hearing status in older adults is emerging. In their scoping review of the influence of hearing loss on social participation in older adults, Chaintre and colleagues. concluded that that older adults with hearing loss have difficulty maintaining relationships and tend to withdraw from social activities that are considered important to them. The role audiologists can play in facilitating social connectedness as part of routine hearing health care will be discussed along. with the relevance to the. well being of the persons with whom we. work and by association our professional job satisfaction.

• Participants will become familiar with the terms auditory, wellness, social connectedness, loneliness and social isolation
• Participants will gain an understanding of how to quantify auditory wellness and how to optimize it in clinical practice
• Participants will become conversant with evidence linking hearing status two social connectedness

In Matt Hay's "Soundtrack of Silence”, he chronicles his journey with hearing loss due to neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). As a young man, Matt discovered he would go completely deaf, prompting him to create a mental soundtrack of the most meaningful songs and sounds from his life. This practice helped him cope with the impending silence and retain his connection to those cherished memories. Matt will share his story and journey with attendees.

We’ve seen many studies about the relationship between hearing loss and cognitive health. Study findings are often summarized with statistics such as “Hearing aids can slow the rate of cognitive decline by 48%.” However, there is a gap between what these statistics signify to epidemiologists, and what the public takes away from the messages. In this interactive workshop, we revisit what you learned in graduate school about epidemiologic risk at the individual and population level, and we review the various epidemiologic meanings of “prevention.” Along the way, you’ll solve problems with your seatmates.We’ll apply what we’ve learned by discussing several messages that, while technically correct from an epidemiologic perspective, may be misleading and/or of questionable relevance to the typical patient: “Hearing loss is the leading potentially avoidable risk factor for dementia,” “Hearing aids may prevent dementia”, and “Hearing aids can slow the rate of cognitive decline by 48%.”

Audiology state advocacy involves efforts to influence state legislation and policies that affect audiologists and hearing healthcare services. Panelists will share their experiences, the good, the bad and the ugly, in state advocacy initiatives.

Federal audiology advocacy involves engaging with federal lawmakers and regulatory bodies to influence policies that impact audiologists and hearing healthcare. Panelists will share the current federal landscape and how it can impact audiology and hearing care.

Phonak's CCMC (Customer Care Measurement & Consulting) Benchmarking Surveys are conducted annually to gather comprehensive data on the performance of hearing care practices across the United States. These surveys, which Phonak has been commissioning since 2008, provide insights into various operational and financial metrics that help practices benchmark their performance against industry standards. This session will focus on the outcomes of the most recent CCMC survey and how this data can influence your practice.

• The benefits of benchmarking.
• Key performance metrics & industry insights gathered from 2024 survey.
• Impact of best practices on key performance metrics.

Tinnitus, a widespread global health issue affecting quality of life and mental well-being, now has an innovative solution: Lenire. This at-home device, the first to receive FDA approval for tinnitus treatment, employs bimodal neuromodulation to effectively reduce symptoms. Backed by a large-scale, FDA-compliant clinical trial where 83% of participants recommended it, Lenire has also shown positive outcomes in real-world settings. Over 300 patients at Alaska Hearing and Tinnitus Center experienced a strong response to a hybrid care approach using bimodal stimulation, with the vast majority responding positively at the first and second follow-up assessments.

• Attendees will be able to explain the concept of bimodal neuromodulation as it relates to tinnitus treatment.
• Attendees will be able to summarize results of clinical trials demonstrating use of bimodal neuromodulation to treat tinnitus.
• Attendees will be able to summarize real-world results with the Lenire tinnitus treatment device.

Vestibular migraines, also known as migrainous vertigo, are a type of migraine that primarily affects balance and can cause dizziness, vertigo, and other vestibular symptoms. This course will focus on the diagnosis and management of vestibular migraines, including an innovative treatment options that is being evaluated.

A collaborative working group met to develop marketing strategy based on new research about the connection between better hearing and various health outcomes, including cognitive health. This group identified and developed several tools to facilitate both community and medical outreach. Responsible and thoughtful messaging was used to promote a more holistic understanding of the benefits of hearing health.

In this presentation, the results of pilot of the new marketing assets (which were developed by both ADA members and Phonak) will be share by the ADA members involved.

• Describe tools used to carry out an educational event for consumers in their community
• List resources and tools for educating medical professionals in their communities about the benefits of collaborative hearing care
• Describe how to facilitate and structure both consumer and medical outreach marketing programs in their community

A positive company culture is essential for fostering highly motivated and engaged employees. In the hearing industry, the creation of a clinical culture within private practices hinges on the actions and behaviors of management and leaders. Employees thrive in environments where they can make meaningful contributions, and building and maintaining a cohesive team is as crucial as delivering exceptional patient care. This course will explore the key components of culture in private practice, identify drivers of motivation, and examine strategies for universal engagement to enhance both motivation and culture building.

• Describe the impact of company culture on patient care
• Identify common root causes of performance issues
• List 3 types of motivation drivers

This presentation will explore various aspects of team development tailored for audiologists. We will review the "See, Act, Embed" framework to enhance team collaboration and performance. Key topics include recognizing individual motivators and leveraging these to optimize team dynamics. Attendees will gain practical insights on discerning effective behaviors, sustaining long-term change, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Join us to discover strategies that can support your audiology practice and ensure high-level patient care through team collaboration.

• Explain the role of individual motivators in fostering effective team dynamics.
• Summarize the "See, Act, Embed" framework to improve team collaboration.
• Compare six performance drivers that impact team performance including the benefits and limitations of each.

This course will discuss how to clearly, honestly, and ethically communicate the link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. Panelists will move beyond the hype and focus on how to effectively communicate the true outcomes of the research.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of marketing strategies tailored specifically for audiology practices. Participants will learn how to effectively promote their services, attract new patients, and retain existing ones through a combination of traditional and digital marketing techniques.

1. List the biggest barriers to adoption of hearing treatment as outlined in the study commissioned by CareCredit
2. List key considerations for outreach to young adult consumers
3. Describe methods to overcome financial barriers to accessing hearing care

"Innovations in Speech in Noise" is an area of research that focuses on advancements in understanding and improving how people perceive and process speech in noisy environments. This course will focus on reimagining speech recognition testing and the rehabilitative value of speech in noise testing.

This session will highlight provider compensation structures and related issues such as in-depth insight and analysis on employee contracts, regulatory concerns, ethical considerations and supervision/oversight requirements.

• Employee compensation models
• Employer/Employee relationships in a post non-compete landscape
• Address Legal/Compliance/Ethics relating to the topic

Music audiology is a small specialized field, and until the 2020 clinical consensus document there wasn't much guidance for clinical practice. The speakers were authors on the document, and will review the key implications for clinical practice in the testing and management of Music industry professionals, as well as providing updates on research and technological advancements. One impactful advancement is the availability of tele-audiology, which has the effect of improving access and awareness.

• Apply clinical best practices to the audiologic care of musicians and music industry professionals.
• Identify tools and methods available to verify hearing protection devices and in-ear monitors.
• Assess how teleaudiology impacts access to and provision of hearing healthcare to music industry professionals.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing marketing strategies in audiology by enabling more targeted, data-driven approaches. AI-powered analytics help audiology practices understand patient demographics, preferences, and behaviors, allowing for highly personalized marketing campaigns. Machine learning algorithms analyze customer data to predict needs, tailor advertisements, and optimize outreach efforts. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants enhance patient engagement by providing instant responses and support, improving overall user experience. Presenters will discuss how AI can impact your practice.

Third-party networks in audiology refer to organizations or companies that provide insurance and billing services for audiology practices. These networks often help manage claims, reimbursements, and contracts with insurance providers. In this course, panelists will explain the “why”, from the perspective of the health plan, employer or union and outline what they see as the future of third-party networks in the hearing healthcare space.

Imaging technologies have revolutionized the field of audiology and otolaryngology by enhancing the accuracy of diagnosis and management of auditory disorders. This course Dr. Kutz will discuss the application of various imaging modalities, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and advanced imaging techniques in the differential diagnosis of otologic conditions. It will also outline when an audiologist should refer their patients for imaging.

Join us as we introduce the next technological innovation to the world of hearing care by delivering a revolution in hearing aid technology, transcending one of the biggest challenges in hearing care with unprecedented speech from noise separation.

1. Explain the possible application and benefits of artificial intelligence in hearing care
2. List the new Phonak portfolio of products, features, and performance levels
3. List the benefits of the new Phonak portfolio for both HCPs and patients

As managed care involvement in hearing care continues to grow, audiologists have to make decisions about their participation, as in-network providers, in these health plans. This course will weigh the pros and cons of participation in health and hearing benefit plans and outline how an audiologist can make a decision on participation for themselves and their practices.

Audiologists are likely to be familiar with medications that have ototoxic side effects but may be less familiar with investigational medicines being evaluated for possible prevention of hearing loss, or even hearing restoration. With increasing information available to the public, audiologists may receive questions from patients. This session will provide a tutorial on the regulatory process for review of new drug agents, including consideration of ototoxicity and otoprotection, and updates on agents of interest to audiologists. Clinical trial design and findings will be reviewed, including not only the audiogram but also hearing-in-noise difficulties and tinnitus.

• Describe the regulatory oversight and testing process for investigational new drug agents
• Summarize the current status of drug development for hearing indications
• Identify outcome measures of interest for studies on ototoxicity and otoprotection

Auditory Processing Disorders (APD) remain at the forefront of audiological and educational discussions due to their intricate nature and profound impact on an individual's daily life, especially in communication and learning environments. This specialized training workshop is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of APD, its diagnostic criteria, and intervention strategies, using research and evidence-based clinical practices. This course will also discuss processes for incorporating APD services in an audiology practice.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe the neurological underpinnings of APD, enabling them to identify the difference between peripheral hearing loss and central auditory processing issues
2. Attendees will be able to describe a variety of diagnostic tools and assessment techniques specific to APD
3. Attendees will be able to describe intervention strategies tailored for individuals with APD
4. Attendees will be able to describe the process for incorporating APD services in an audiology clinic

This audiology legal seminar will cover key legal topics that impact audiologists and audiology practices including regulatory requirements for practice, liability, licensure, contracting, financing, and employment.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe state and federal laws that impact the practice of audiology and ownership of an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe activities that could violate federal statutes
3. Attendees will be able to describe state and federal laws that they must uphold as employers
4. Attendees will be able to list three actions that they can take immediately to identify legal issues in their audiology practice

This comprehensive course is designed to equip audiologists with the knowledge and skills to effectively utilize hearing instrument specialists (HIS) as extenders in their practice, focusing on key clinical and business considerations.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe different practice models that incorporate audiologists and hearing instrument specialists along the patient care continuum
2. Attendees will be able to list three reimbursement/credentialing considerations related to incorporating hearing instrument specialists in an audiology practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe potential barriers with licensure and training for hearing instrument specialists and how to overcome them

The AuDacity Student Session, sponsored by Starkey Hearing Technologies, offers audiology students, who are interested in private practice, the unrivaled opportunity for interactive training with industry and audiology thought leaders. Session topics include the digital patient era, unveiling clinical success through behaviors and engagement, implementing tinnitus treatment in private practice, and the latest innovations in hearing aid technology, featuring Genesis AI.

ADA is grateful for Starkey’s proven commitment to support the future of private practice through its support and development of AuDacity student scholarships and the AuDacity Student Session.

Many developing countries are experiencing an urgent need for hearing healthcare. They are faced with the task of providing hearing aids and services that are appropriate and affordable without the resources for training, services and finances. Hearing the Call (HTC) a 501C3, created by audiologists, has been providing hearing health care services worldwide since 2015. By applying World Health Organization’s (WHO) Guidelines for Hearing Aids and Services for Developing Countries and incorporating best practices and learnings, HTC has designed a model to systematically introduce or further develop hearing healthcare in areas of need. This course will describe a 3 Phase model looking at primary, secondary and tertiary health care systems and how audiologists can use their areas of expertise to fill in the gaps.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the difference between a primary, secondary and tertiary health care system as defined by WHO to understand the needs of those with hearing loss in developing countries
2. Describe how the phases of development are implemented in real world scenarios
3. List the types of hearing aids and earmold currently utilized on humanitarian trips

The Entheos Student Humanitarian Program is a program designed to provide an opportunity for audiology students and their universities to participate in a highly structured, supervised humanitarian event (international, domestic, or local). These student humanitarian events are organized to provide a high level of “audiology best practices” with supervision and mentorship provided by Entheos Audiology Cooperative member audiologists. The humanitarian trips are provided by Hearing the Call, a 501C3 non-profit organization.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to list different types of humanitarian audiology initiatives and level of clinical experience and commitment required for each
2. Attendees will be able to describe pathways for students and audiologists to volunteer to serve on a humanitarian audiology mission
3. Attendees will be able to describe actions that students and audiologists must take to ensure a successful experience as part of a humanitarian mission

There is an urgent need to provide hearing aids and services that are appropriate and affordable for developing countries considering the scarcity and resources of skills training, services and finances in most developing countries. The World Health Organization has developed guidelines on how to implement hearing healthcare services in developing countries. This course will discuss how audiologists can help build bridges to hearing healthcare around the world. Examples of countries where a nonprofit 501C3, Hearing the Call, has utilized their humanitarian model, based on WHO guidelines, to improve the lives of those people in those countries.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the difference between a primary, secondary and tertiary health care system as defined by WHO to understand the needs of those with hearing loss in developing countries
2. Discuss ideas on how governments can assist with advocacy and awareness campaigns for hearing loss prevention, early intervention, and/or treatment
3. Explain how creating jobs for graduating audiologists within a country needs to be attractive to retain the workforce within the country

Seasoned students and recent graduates will share their experiences from externships, Praxis exam preparation, interview tips, and life in the clinic as a post graduate audiologist. This panel discussion is designed for students seeking an opportunity to ask questions and get candid feedback from peers and recent graduates.

The hearing healthcare industry and profession of audiology stand at the crossroads of rapid technological advancement and an ever-increasing global demand, driven in part by aging populations and a heightened awareness of auditory health. This panel discussion brings together global industry innovators with expertise across the hearing sector to provide their forward-looking perspective on the industry, the next wave of innovations, emerging market dynamics, and the evolving expectations of consumers—and the impact of those factors on the profession of audiology. Participants will be introduced to the latest breakthroughs in hearing technology, and predictions about how the convergence of AI, connectivity, and personalized medicine will redefine the hearing health landscape. Panelists will provide insight on the future of the profession and steps that audiologists must take today to create a successful tomorrow.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe emerging market trends influencing consumer behavior
2. Attendees will be able to describe the role and responsibility of audiologists and industry partners in global hearing health advocacy and consumer awareness
3. Attendees will be able to describe challenges and opportunities facing the profession of audiology and broader hearing health industry, strategies to address them
4. Attendees will be able to describe how advancements in hearing technology may contribute to a reimagined user experience and change perceptions of “hearing aids”

The hearing healthcare industry and profession of audiology stand at the crossroads of rapid technological advancement and an ever-increasing global demand, driven in part by aging populations and a heightened awareness of auditory health. This panel discussion brings together global industry innovators with expertise across the hearing sector to provide their forward-looking perspective on the industry, the next wave of innovations, emerging market dynamics, and the evolving expectations of consumers—and the impact of those factors on the profession of audiology. Participants will be introduced to the latest breakthroughs in hearing technology, and predictions about how the convergence of AI, connectivity, and personalized medicine will redefine the hearing health landscape. Panelists will provide insight on the future of the profession and steps that audiologists must take today to create a successful tomorrow.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe emerging market trends influencing consumer behavior
2. Attendees will be able to describe the role and responsibility of audiologists and industry partners in global hearing health advocacy and consumer awareness
3. Attendees will be able to describe challenges and opportunities facing the profession of audiology and broader hearing health industry, strategies to address them
4. Attendees will be able to describe how advancements in hearing technology may contribute to a reimagined user experience and change perceptions of “hearing aids”

Celebrate the opening of the AuDacity conference with a trip through the exhibit hall! Visit the AuDacity marketplace to meet with representatives from innovative companies offering great solutions to implement in your practice. Enjoy food, fun, and festivities with your friends and peers!

This course will discuss preliminary findings from the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study, a large-scale randomized, controlled trial designed to determine if treating hearing loss in older adults could reduce cognitive decline that can precede dementia. Dr. Lin will present key results from the study, discuss implications for clinicians, researchers, and the public-at-large, and recommend areas where additional research should be focused.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe the population studied by the ACHIEVE trial
2. Attendees will be able to describe preliminary findings from the ACHIEVE study
3. Attendees will be able to describe areas where additional research is needed

This course will provide an overview of the clinical protocols used in the ACHIEVE research study and their practical application in the clinic. Panelists will summarize ACHIEVE trial outcomes, discuss relevance to clinical practice, and provide recommendations for audiologists.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to summarize the ACHIEVE study
2. Attendees will be able to describe clinical protocols utilized in the ACHIEVE study and their applications in clinical practice
3. Attendees will be able to list recommendations for communicating accurate information to the public regarding ACHIEVE outcomes

Following on the heels of research from John’s Hopkins, dementia, cognition, and cognitive screenings are hot topics in audiology. Audiologists need guidance on our role in the cognitive screening process and how to best integrate this research into their daily clinical practice. This panel will discuss cognitive screening and how audiologists can ethically and successfully integrate tools and approaches for the benefit of these patients.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Define dementia and cognitive decline
2. Describe the role of the audiologist in cognition and cognitive screening
3. Identify effective tools for cognitive screening
4. Describe how to use the screening information for referral, care plan creation, device selection, and rehabilitation

This panel discussion will focus on integrating vestibular screening and assessment into a private audiology practice. Panelists will discuss the potential scope and available options that can be provided both with and without extensive vestibular test equipment, including bedside evaluation, how to operationalize this within a practice, and the value of these service to your patients, referral sources, community, and practice.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Define what constitutes a bedside assessment and the potential role of the audiologist
2. List the potential screening and diagnostic procedures that can be performed without extensive vestibular test equipment
3. Describe the steps required to implement vestibular screening and assessment in an audiology private practice

A Functional & Communication Needs Assessment (F&CNA) is a procedure that has garnered recent interest in audiology circles. This service, which has roots as far back as the 1990s, can help an audiologist gain more information about the patient and their functional, communication, and auditory needs, desires, and goals. This panel discussion will discuss F&CNA, what they are, what they typically entail, and why they are valuable to the patient and the practice.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. List key aspects of a Communication and Functional Needs Assessment (CNFA)
2. Describe how a CNFA differs from a typical hearing aid evaluation
3. Describe the benefits of performing a CNFA to your patients and your practice

This session will focus on innovative initiatives in hearing and hearing loss awareness. Dr. Lin will provide an overview of the Hearing Number, a metric that can help consumers better understand their hearing and how it changes over time. Dr. Edwards will discuss the COM-B model, a public health framework that can be sued to understand factors that influence consumer behavior when purchasing hearing aids.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Upon completion, participants will be able to calculate the hearing number
2. Upon completion, participants will be able to describe the COM-B model of hearing care delivery
3. Upon completion, participants will be able to integrate consumer awareness initiatives into their audiology practices

This session will provide an overview of various speech in noise tests, the best populations served for each one, and how audiologists can use speech in noise test result to create an individualized treatment plan for patients. Outcome measures that can be used to supplement speech in noise testing to determine treatment devices.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the available speech in noise tests and the best populations served for each one
2. Explain how to use speech in noise test results to create an individualized treatment plan for patients
3. List the outcome measures that can be used to supplement speech in noise testing to determine treatment devices

The roots of the profession of audiology lie in auditory rehabilitation. In some ways though, we, as a profession, have lost sight of the need for the rehabilitation and counseling aspect of audiology. This panel will refocus on auditory rehabilitation and its invaluable role in patient satisfaction, outcomes, performance and patient/family centered care.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe auditory rehabilitation and its role in today’s audiology private practice
2. List possible resources, tools, applications, books, and strategies that are useful and have been successful in integrating auditory rehabilitation into practice
3. Describe how to operationalize and monetize an auditory rehabilitation program
4. Describe strategies for improving patient engagement in and adherence to auditory rehabilitation

This session will discuss the role of connectivity in improving the lifestyles of hearing impaired people in different environments, outline the shortcomings of today’s patchwork of proprietary systems, showcase the differences between Bluetooth and LE Audio + Auracast, demonstrate how Auracast will greatly improve accessibility in public places, and provide audiologists with information that they need to discuss Auracast with consumers.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe the role of connectivity in improving the lifestyles of hearing impaired people in different environments
2. Attendees will be able to describe the differences between today's Bluetooth and LE Audio + Auracast
3. Attendees will be able to describe the shortcomings of today's patchwork array of proprietary systems and how LE Audio / Auracast will make life easier for both AuDs & clients
4. Attendees will be able to describe how Auracast will greatly improve accessibility in public places

The indications for cochlear implantation have evolved significantly over the past decade. This panel discussion will discuss these cochlear implant candidacy changes, referral relationships, activation and programming considerations, and the long-term management of cochlear implants. Panelists will debunk the myths of cochlear implant programs in a private practice and share how others can successfully integrate implants into their practices.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the current cochlear implant candidacy criteria for binaural hearing loss and single sided deafness
2. Describe the components of an evidence based cochlear implant evaluation
3. Describe how to operationalize and monetize a cochlear implant program

Outcome measurement. Verification. Validation. These are catchwords commonly bantered about in audiology. But what do these words really mean to daily clinical practice? This presentation will focus on the utility and practical benefits of validation, verification, and outcome measurements and how they help both audiologists and their patients.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. List research evidence based validation, verification, and outcome measurements tools and options
2. Implement validation and verification tools in their audiology practices
3. Operationalize and monetize validation, verification and outcome measurements

As we know, tinnitus effects approximately 25 million Americans, with 2 million experiencing debilitating tinnitus, yet there is still a need for audiologists to provide support to these individuals. This panel will discuss the patient centered delivery of evidence-based tinnitus evaluation, treatment, and counseling, both with and beyond a hearing aid, and how to expand access to care in a private practice setting.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the prevalence and need for improved access to tinnitus management services in the US
2. Describe the different levels/tiers of tinnitus evaluation and management that can be provided in a private practice setting
3. Describe the role of the case history, patient interview, and counseling in the tinnitus care delivery process
4. List the procedures, tools, and equipment required for the evidence based evaluation of tinnitus

This members-only session will feature a closed-door advocacy and legal briefing, focused on issues of significance for the organization and its members. Meet ADA’s federal lobbyists and attorney and discover the latest issues of significance for the profession and your practice.

Go beyond the hotel walls and make the most of the Hyatt Coconut Point Resort venue at this evening outdoor soiree! Meet us on the lawn for your choice of fun, games, and fabulous food! Quack the code and cap off your evening with the Race to Integrate Duck Race, sponsored by Care Credit and Sycle! Visit the CareCredit and Sycle booths for more information and to register.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), measures of performance over time, provide owners and managers with critical information that they can use to evaluate practice operations and make important decisions to optimize clinical and business operations. This panel session will explore KPIs utilized in three different private practices, as well as the rationale, process, and measurement interval for each KPI. Panelists will also discuss their processes for measuring, analyzing, interpreting, and applying collected data to make ongoing adjustments and improvements to practice operations.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to list at least 5 KPIs used in a private audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for analyzing measured data and using it to make business and clinical decisions in the practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe tools that practices can use to measure, record, and analyze performance measures in their practice

Recruiting and hiring clinical and administrative staff is among the greatest challenges facing practice owners. This course will explore obstacles to and real-world strategies for attracting talent into private practices. Panelists will share their personal experiences and offer candid perspectives on what has worked, what hasn’t worked, and why. Innovative approaches and tools that can be used to recruit the right people into the right positions will be discussed.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe unique challenges associated with recruiting and hiring clinical and administrative team members
2. Attendees will be able to describe strategies that can be used to recruit clinical and administrative staff
3. Attendees will be able to list different tools that can be implemented to screen, interview, and onboard employees successfully

This panel discussion with focus on the role of third-party networks in today’s hearing healthcare landscape. Leaders from the three most prominent hearing care plans, Amplifon Hearing Care, Tru-Hearing, and UHC Hearing will share insights why these programs have been created, the influence of consumers, the parent health plan and hearing aid manufacturers on the plans, their processes and the formulary options, and the how audiologists and audiology practices can successfully engage in these programs.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the role of third-party networks in today’s hearing healthcare landscape
2. Describe the differences between a funded and unfunded hearing aid benefit
3. List the key considerations in successful implementation of third-party network programs in an audiology practice

This course will help current and aspiring practice owners navigate the lending landscape and acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about financing audiology practices. Expert panelists will discuss common capital needs and evaluate traditional and alternative lending options that can be employed to start or expand an audiology clinic. The loan determination process, factors that impact the lending decision, and actions that audiologists can take to improve loan approval odds will be discussed. Participants will gain insights into both traditional and alternative lending options, and real-world case studies will be used to highlight the pros and cons of different financing routes. At the conclusion of the course, participants will be better prepared to secure financing that aligns with their practice’s needs.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to list common situations that require capital
2. Attendees will be able to identify different types of business loans
3. Attendees will be able to describe the loan determination process and factors that impact the lending decision
4. Attendees will be able to describe the pros and cons of different financing routes and actions that they can take to maximize their lending opportunities

Interdisciplinary care teams reduce time to treatment and provide convenience for patients. Incorporating non-audiologist providers can also be lucrative for practices seeking to expand the number and types of services offered to patients. This panel session explores different employment/contracting models and mechanisms for incorporating otolaryngologists, physical therapists, and speech language pathologists into an audiology practice. Panelists will share their experiences integrating non-audiology services in small and large practices, and offer practical tips for audiologists considering similar approaches to care delivery.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe different employment models that audiology practice owners can use to incorporate otolaryngology, physical therapy, and/or speech language pathology services into their practice
2. List legal considerations that audiology practices should consider when partnering with other clinical professionals in practice
3. Describe how to integrate non-audiology services into an audiology practice

This course will help individuals at all levels of proficiency enhance their oratory skills and command over verbal communication. From understanding the psychology of audiences to mastering the mechanics of delivery, participants will be guided through a transformative journey, enabling them to captivate listeners and convey their messages with precision and impact. Ideal for audiologists, students, and anyone looking to make their voice heard, this course bridges the gap between mere speaking and truly resonating.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe the psychological factors that influence listeners' reception and interpretation of a message
2. Attendees will be able to describe techniques to enhance their vocal modulation, pacing, and body language
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for organizing their thoughts coherently and crafting compelling narratives, and ensure their core message remains clear and memorable

Audiology participation in third-party networks (TPNs) has been controversial in audiology practices for decades. This panel discussion will discuss the pros and cons of TPN participation in audiology practice and how, it is possible, to make it a win-win for the hard of hearing and the provider.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Define what a third-party network is
2. List examples of some TPNs and what health plans they represent
3. Explain the pros and cons of TPN participation
4. Describe how to effectively operationalize TPNs in practice

This course will help current and aspiring practice owners navigate the lending landscape and acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about financing audiology practices. Expert panelists will discuss common capital needs and evaluate traditional and alternative lending options that can be employed to start or expand an audiology clinic. The loan determination process, factors that impact the lending decision, and actions that audiologists can take to improve loan approval odds will be discussed. Participants will gain insights into both traditional and alternative lending options, and real-world case studies will be used to highlight the pros and cons of different financing routes. At the conclusion of the course, participants will be better prepared to secure financing that aligns with their practice’s needs.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to list common situations that require capital
2. Attendees will be able to identify different types of business loans
3. Attendees will be able to describe the loan determination process and factors that impact the lending decision
4. Attendees will be able to describe the pros and cons of different financing routes and actions that they can take to maximize their lending opportunities

In the rapidly evolving digital age, the ability to navigate and harness the potential of various media channels is imperative for both individuals and organizations. This media training class offers a comprehensive overview of the modern media landscape, emphasizing best practices for effective communication, presentation techniques, and crisis management. Participants will be introduced to the nuances of different platforms, gain insights into audience engagement, and develop the confidence to represent themselves or their organizations professionally and authentically.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to identify and differentiate between various media platforms, recognizing their unique characteristics, advantages, and challenges
2. Attendees will be able to identify challenges in crafting clear, impactful messages and verbal and non-verbal techniques to overcome them
3. Attendees will be able to list strategies for crisis management

Philanthropic and humanitarian audiologic care is offered in many places throughout the US. Unfortunately, there are still large numbers of hard of hearing individuals who do not have access to care. This presentation will illustrate two different audiology private practices who are providing audiologic care to underserved populations. They will share their tips in how these populations can be served by your team.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Define what constitutes an underserved population
2. Describe how to publicly and privately fund audiologic care in underserved populations
3. Describe how to integrate and operationalize Medicaid and/or sliding fee schedules into your audiology practice

Developing and implementing strategies for training and retaining clinical and administrative staff can be daunting. This course will explore obstacles to and real-world strategies that private practice owners are deploying to build employee loyalty, growth, and competency. Panelists will share their personal experiences and discuss their training and employee retention approaches.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Attendees will be able to describe barriers to effective staff training and employee retention
2. Attendees will be able to describe strategies that can be used to help ensure that training programs are implemented successfully
3. Attendeess will be able to list programs that private audiology practices have used to improve employee retention

This presentation will allow for a discussion, amongst colleagues from various facets of audiology, on the past, present and future of audiology and private, independent practice. They will provide insight on how to avoid pitfalls, embrace change and explore opportunities.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Identify current challenges in audiology and private practice
2. Identify current opportunities in audiology and private practice
3. Summarize important practical considerations for audiology practice owners and managers

To close out the convention, we will have a panel discussion amongst industry leaders who will discuss the current hearing healthcare landscape, the needs and desires of consumers within this landscape, and hearing healthcare providers successes and failures in meeting consumer needs. The panel plans to share ideas on what audiologists can do to serve the hard of hearing community while advancing the profession.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the current role and status of audiologists in healthcare
2. Describe consumer needs in hearing healthcare
3. Describe actions needing to be taken by audiologists to meet consumer needs

Over the course of AuDacity, presenters and panelists have discussed the patient centered, evidence-based delivery of audiologic evaluation and treatment beyond the hearing aid. This course will offer a road map for operationalizing and monetizing the services discussed throughout the convention within an audiology practice. We will discuss the entire revenue cycle process, from scheduling to payment, as well as how manage care fits in.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

1. Appropriately utilize a good faith estimate, advanced beneficiary notice and notice of non-coverage in their practice
2. List the codes that can be billed to Medicare once per calendar year without a physician order
3. Determine if their state allows for the use of evaluation and management codes within their scope of practice
4. Establish a usual and customary price for services
5. Appropriately bill for the services provided by audiology extenders
6. Operationalize and monetize research evidence-based audiology evaluation and treatment services

Virtually all hearing aid wearers judge the success of their devices by their ability to communicate in acoustically challenging social situations. The purpose of this course is to show how two distinctly differently signal processing strategies provide patient benefit in noisy situations. In addition to a discussion of how these signal platforms differ, the course provides guidance on how the Quick SIN and SSQ-12 (a validated self-report) can be used to determine which signal processing strategy might be most beneficial for the individual.

1. List the communication problems associated with background noise
2. Differentiate between two hearing aid signal processing strategies and understand their key philosophic differences
3. Identify patients who are most likely to benefit from each strategy

Hearing aid verification, including real-ear and test box measurement, is commonly viewed as a best practice procedure during the hearing aid fitting process. Given ongoing industry disruptions in product offerings, changes in service delivery models and increasing competition, the need to provide proven clinical services that support practice success has never been greater.

This session will illustrate how the routine use of hearing aid verification can significantly benefit both the patient and the practice. Evidence supporting this perspective will be highlighted along with methods to effectively integrate verification into the clinic workflow. Tools and techniques that can be used to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and overall value of verification services with both traditional hearing aids and over-the-counter devices will also be reviewed.

1. Describe why hearing aid verification services are needed in the fitting of hearing aids
2. Describe how hearing aid verification services can build practice success
3. Describe clinical workflows for effectively incorporating verification services in the modern practice with both traditional hearing aids and OTC devices

Even the most successful organizations must continually reinvent their products, services and solutions to remain market leaders in an age of growing change, connectivity and globalization. In this eye-opening presentation, audiences will learn how to thrive in the new operating reality, create competitive advantage, and successfully leverage new leadership strategies to adapt to changing times. From more powerful ways to unleash innovation to solutions for better capitalizing on cutting-edge advancements, discover how you and your organization can flourish in tomorrow’s world – and effectively apply its most crucial success strategies and skills in context.

Audiology is the subject of rapid change as we transition from Symmetrical, to Disruptive, and ultimately Chaotic Innovation. One major component of Chaotic Innovation, is the impact that Chaotic Innovation will play in the future of Audiology. These “near earth” global trends include the impact of Decentralization of Diagnostics, Patient Consumerism, Cost Transparency, and the need to create far better Audiological Diagnostic Workflows, and Consumer Experiences. Over the next three years, we will see major changes across the audiology market that will impact every participant within the delivery ecosystem. In this customized talk, Nick will deliver a powerful presentation with actionable takeaways.

The audiology marketplace is the subject of chaotic change. This change will take place in two hemispheres. One hemisphere will be that of regulated hearing amplification devices and the way in which they are delivered to patients through new clinical, value, and economic models. The second hemisphere will be the emergence of layered and dynamic amplification technologies that fall into the unregulated category but deliver a wide range of layered and dynamic patient value. Additional major factors that will play into the market scape will be integrated value that includes other areas of patient value, especially geriatric patient value. The key “near earth” driving trends nclude the hyper consumerization of audiology, Zero UI technologies, the rapid growth of “In-Ear“ technologies that leverage accelerometers, EEG, temperature sensing, continuity monitoring and a wide range of other ear sensors as part of an integrated wellness technology solutions. The best organizations in audiology will leverage new innovation pipelines to ensure their relevancy in a rapidly changing technology market scape. They will concurrently implement a wide range of new consumer value models and technology delivery methods.

Nick draws from his experience as a healthcare technologist with over 40 patents, and his experience as a management consultant to the top medical device companies in the world:

1. The three BIG “near earth” trends of the future of audiology
2. The impact of consumerization on the future of audiology
3. Emerging technology trends that orbit audiology and what to do about them
4. The impact of new economic and value models on the future of audiology
5. The playbook for the future of of audiology innovation

Financial management and forecasting are foundational for the success of audiology practices—and yet, can stir the most fear and frustration among practice owners and managers. This session will provide attendees with exceptional insight into best practices for the financial management of audiology practices and everything you need to know to figure, factor, and formulate plans for success.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the difference between cash and accrual accounting
2. Attendees will be able to list the key financial metrics, formulas, and factors used to track the health of audiology practices
3. Attendees will be able to demonstrate the process for accurately forecasting financial trends in an audiology practice

You’re very confident working with your clients. You are an excellent diagnostician, you create attainable goals, and you are able to implement interventions to ensure the most effective treatment plan. Right? Are you as confident running your business as you are treating your clients?

Most healthcare entrepreneurs aren’t, and I totally understand that. You probably never considered this, but your background in healthcare actually gives you an advantage in running a business. It’s actually pretty simple. Your business is like a patient, you just have to treat it that way. It needs a diagnosis and a treatment plan, just like the person sitting on your couch. The Fix This Next system will show you how to diagnose your business correctly every single time.

Just like your clients, when you are confident in the diagnosis, the treatment interventions are quite simple.

This session will apply the principles of Kacey Compton’s groundbreaking book, “Fix this Next for Healthcare Providers” specifically to help audiology practice owners prioritize and diagnose issues in their practice as it relates to sales, profit, and order. Audiology practice managers and industry experts will share specific strategies for identifying gaps in systemization, prospect and provider attraction and retention, and role alignment will be emphasized.

1. Attendees will be able to describe how the three key components in the healthcare hierarchy of needs (sales, profit, and order) can be applied to an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the principles of systemization, role alignment, and prospect and provider attraction and their significance in the practice
3. Attendees will be able to list strategies for diagnosing and prioritizing the problems to fix in their practice

The FDA has released the OTC Final rule. Hearing aid delivery models will change even more than they already have. How will audiologists remain relevant as big box retail becomes an even larger competitor and the internet will afford consumers an endless array of pricing and product. The audiology community must consider an update to the way we deliver patient care. This session will discuss the benefits of evidence-based practice, practicing across the full scope of our license as well as discuss the benefits of itemizing services to help audiologists differentiate themselves in the ever changing hearing aid delivery landscape.

1. Demonstrate models of hearing aid service delivery that will increase revenue streams while maintaining patient loyalty
2. Discuss ways to adapt service delivery models using evidence based methods to establish the value of the audiologist while improving patient care and outcomes
3. Describe the advantages to the patient and audiology profession of itemizing services to differentiate between product fees and professional service fees

Sales components of a “fix-this-next” framework for your practice will likely include provider referral development and promotional strategies. This session will deliver real-world guidance on developing and implementing a physician outreach strategy, staff buy-in and coaching, establishing timelines and methods for implementation, measuring success, and adapting to new opportunities and challenges.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the components of a successful provider outreach plan
2. Attendees will be able to list strategies for avoiding and overcoming challenges in implementation of provider outreach plans
3. Attendees will be able to describe key metrics that should be monitored to determine success of provider outreach plans

Order components of a “fix-this-next” strategy include systemization, role alignment, outcome delegation, redundancy, and problem solving. This session will provide attendees with detailed information about how to analyze and develop staffing models for your practice that maximize efficiencies and improve outcomes. Perspectives from a practice owner, a hearing instrument specialist, a practicing audiologist, and an audiology assistant will be shared during this informative panel.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the role of a hearing instrument specialist and an audiology assistant in a private audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to list factors and considerations that they should consider when developing a staffing model for their practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for scheduling specific services using support staff to maximize practice efficiencies

Elements of the sales component of the “fix-this-next” strategy include assessing and modifying your service mix to attract and retain patients and optimize the health of your practice. This session features audiologists and practice owners who have successfully analyzed opportunities for service expansion and integrated new services into their practices. They will offer candid perspectives and practical advice for audiologists seeking opportunities to expand their services.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the process for assessing their service mix to determine whether and what new services to add
2. Attendees will be able to list the most important components of the new service implementation process
3. Attendees will be able to describe the metrics that can be used to measure the success of new service deployment in a private audiology clinic

The FDA has released the OTC Final rule. Hearing aid delivery models will change even more than they already have. How will audiologists remain relevant as big box retail becomes an even larger competitor and the internet will afford consumers an endless array of pricing and product. The audiology community must consider an update to the way we deliver patient care. This session will discuss the benefits of evidence-based practice, practicing across the full scope of our license as well as discuss the benefits of itemizing services to help audiologists differentiate themselves in the ever changing hearing aid delivery landscape.

1. Demonstrate models of hearing aid service delivery that will increase revenue streams while maintaining patient loyalty
2. Discuss ways to adapt service delivery models using evidence based methods to establish the value of the audiologist while improving patient care and outcomes
3. Describe the advantages to the patient and audiology profession of itemizing services to differentiate between product fees and professional service fees

Sales components of a “fix-this-next” framework for your practice will likely include provider referral development and promotional strategies. This session will deliver real-world guidance on developing and implementing a physician outreach strategy, staff buy-in and coaching, establishing timelines and methods for implementation, measuring success, and adapting to new opportunities and challenges.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the components of a successful provider outreach plan
2. Attendees will be able to list strategies for avoiding and overcoming challenges in implementation of provider outreach plans
3. Attendees will be able to describe key metrics that should be monitored to determine success of provider outreach plans

Order components of a “fix-this-next” strategy include systemization, role alignment, outcome delegation, redundancy, and problem solving. This session will provide attendees with detailed information about how to analyze and develop staffing models for your practice that maximize efficiencies and improve outcomes. Perspectives from a practice owner, a hearing instrument specialist, a practicing audiologist, and an audiology assistant will be shared during this informative panel.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the role of a hearing instrument specialist and an audiology assistant in a private audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to list factors and considerations that they should consider when developing a staffing model for their practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for scheduling specific services using support staff to maximize practice efficiencies

Elements of the sales component of the “fix-this-next” strategy include assessing and modifying your service mix to attract and retain patients and optimize the health of your practice. This session features audiologists and practice owners who have successfully analyzed opportunities for service expansion and integrated new services into their practices. They will offer candid perspectives and practical advice for audiologists seeking opportunities to expand their services.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the process for assessing their service mix to determine whether and what new services to add
2. Attendees will be able to list the most important components of the new service implementation process
3. Attendees will be able to describe the metrics that can be used to measure the success of new service deployment in a private audiology clinic

The healthcare hierarchy of needs for audiology practices—sales, profit, and order are dependent on the ability of practice owners to most effectively align their intellectual, financial, and human resources and strengths to the needs of their practice.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the risks associated with a do-it-yourself approach for complex business issues such as legal and information security
2. Attendees will be able to list practice considerations for delegating projects internally and/or outsourcing services, including actual and opportunity costs
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for vetting professionals to serve your practice, and considerations that are unique for audiology practices

Audiologists interested in expanding their amplification services offerings won’t want to miss this session! Audiologists and practice owners will share their experiences, plans, and best business practices for extending amplification services and product offerings, to include OTC hearing aids, cochlear implants, and complementary auditory training tools and techniques.

1. Attendees will be able to list new amplification services that they can incorporate into an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for integrating new amplification services into an audiology practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for tracking and evaluating the success of new amplification service offerings in an audiology practice

Dizziness, Vertigo and Falls are among the most common acute and chronic complaints reported to physicians. It is estimated that 90 million Americans seek help for these conditions each year. In addition, co-morbidities of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological conditions, and an aging population all contribute to a virtually limitless demographic of individuals seeking care.

The addition of neurodiagnostic vestibular evaluations within private practices can provide new sources of physician referrals, revenue, and insulation from the wide array of competitors in the hearing aid distribution landscape. Reimbursement for a comprehensive 75-minute evaluation is up over 20% in 2021 and should be strong for many years to come.

Now with 90 Centers of Specialty Care nationwide, examples of what is possible in practices large and small, is part of AIB’s 30 years of proven success. This presentation will provide a systematic approach on how to create, implement and operate a profitable service within your existing four walls. A review of best practice protocols, instrumentation, patient acquisition, reimbursement and building a referral network will be highlighted.

1. Name the most common otologic and non-otologic conditions causing vertigo
2. Describe the test battery to differentiate peripheral from central vestibular disorders
3. List at least 3 of the most important components in building a successful neurodiagnostic section with your practice
4. Explain how evidence based diagnostic protocols produce the best outcomes in vestibular rehabilitation

If you have been considering starting a practice specializing in auditory processing disorders (APD) or adding an APD service line in your existing practice, but aren’t quite sure where to begin—this session is for you! Audiologists and practice owners will share their innovative business ideas and step-by-step how-tos, must dos, and don’t dos for planning, promoting, scheduling, staffing, and measuring APD services in an audiology practice.

1. Attendees will be able to describe methods for assessing whether to incorporate APD services into their service mix
2. Attendees will be able to list various methods for in-person and remote APD service delivery
3. Attendees will be able to describe processes for developing a plan for incorporating APD services into an audiology practice, including promoting, staffing, scheduling, and reimbursement

Expanding your service offerings to include tinnitus services is an ideal way to meet the needs of your patients and grow your practice. Seasoned professionals will share sound advice and best practices for incorporating tinnitus evaluation and treatment into your service portfolio.

1. Attendees will be able to list the benefits of implementing tinnitus services into an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for incorporating tinnitus services in a brick-and-mortar and virtual clinic
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for promoting tinnitus services in the community

Audiology student teams will compete and showcase their business skills for a chance to receive a $5,000 ADA cash grant to be used to advance business objectives and enhance leadership skills. During the live event, each team will deliver a 10-minute presentation, which will be followed by a 5-minute Q&A (with some questions coming from the audience). Join us and cheer on the next generation of audiologists as they take their first steps toward private practice ownership.

1. Upon completion, participants will be able to define the various business plans presented by the three finalists, all current AuD students, and will have the opportunity to virtually respond to each presentation
2. Upon completion, participants will be able to observe feedback and questions from the panel of expert judges, and use this feedback in their own practices

Audiologists interested in expanding their amplification services offerings won’t want to miss this session! Audiologists and practice owners will share their experiences, plans, and best business practices for extending amplification services and product offerings, to include OTC hearing aids, cochlear implants, and complementary auditory training tools and techniques.

1. Attendees will be able to list new amplification services that they can incorporate into an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for integrating new amplification services into an audiology practice
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for tracking and evaluating the success of new amplification service offerings in an audiology practice

Dizziness, Vertigo and Falls are among the most common acute and chronic complaints reported to physicians. It is estimated that 90 million Americans seek help for these conditions each year. In addition, co-morbidities of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological conditions, and an aging population all contribute to a virtually limitless demographic of individuals seeking care.

The addition of neurodiagnostic vestibular evaluations within private practices can provide new sources of physician referrals, revenue, and insulation from the wide array of competitors in the hearing aid distribution landscape. Reimbursement for a comprehensive 75-minute evaluation is up over 20% in 2021 and should be strong for many years to come.

Now with 90 Centers of Specialty Care nationwide, examples of what is possible in practices large and small, is part of AIB’s 30 years of proven success. This presentation will provide a systematic approach on how to create, implement and operate a profitable service within your existing four walls. A review of best practice protocols, instrumentation, patient acquisition, reimbursement and building a referral network will be highlighted.

1. Name the most common otologic and non-otologic conditions causing vertigo
2. Describe the test battery to differentiate peripheral from central vestibular disorders
3. List at least 3 of the most important components in building a successful neurodiagnostic section with your practice
4. Explain how evidence based diagnostic protocols produce the best outcomes in vestibular rehabilitation

If you have been considering starting a practice specializing in auditory processing disorders (APD) or adding an APD service line in your existing practice, but aren’t quite sure where to begin—this session is for you! Audiologists and practice owners will share their innovative business ideas and step-by-step how-tos, must dos, and don’t dos for planning, promoting, scheduling, staffing, and measuring APD services in an audiology practice.

1. Attendees will be able to describe methods for assessing whether to incorporate APD services into their service mix
2. Attendees will be able to list various methods for in-person and remote APD service delivery
3. Attendees will be able to describe processes for developing a plan for incorporating APD services into an audiology practice, including promoting, staffing, scheduling, and reimbursement

Expanding your service offerings to include tinnitus services is an ideal way to meet the needs of your patients and grow your practice. Seasoned professionals will share sound advice and best practices for incorporating tinnitus evaluation and treatment into your service portfolio.

1. Attendees will be able to list the benefits of implementing tinnitus services into an audiology practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for incorporating tinnitus services in a brick-and-mortar and virtual clinic
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for promoting tinnitus services in the community

This interactive roundtable session will use guided questions and small group discussion to assist audiologists in creating a personal practice roadmap. Attendees will formulate and document their own personal success plan.

1. Attendees will be able to list three priorities for action in their practice
2. Attendees will be able to describe the process for implementing their plan of action
3. Attendees will be able to describe the metrics they have chosen to evaluate their progress

This session will include an overview of relevant research studies on the relationship between auditory processing, cognitive functions, language/reading, and conditions that often co-exist with auditory processing issues. Evidence-based patient assessment and management techniques will be presented, including conducting the case history, and determining appropriate audiologic testing procedures and treatment protocols.

1. Attendees will be able to describe essential components of case history that identify the need for further assessment for auditory processing disorders (APD)
2. Attendees will be able to list various developmental conditions that co-exist with auditory processing issues and describe appropriate assessment techniques
3. Attendees will be able to describe the process for interpreting APD test results and develop appropriate treatment recommendations

This course will present evidence-based strategies for tinnitus assessment and management. Specific tools and procedures will be demonstrated to assist audiologists in managing patients experiencing tinnitus.

1. Attendees will be able to describe the process for conducting an audiologic assessment of patient reporting tinnitus.
2. Attendees will be able list the steps in interpreting test results and evaluate treatment alternatives
3. Attendees will be able to describe other conditions that are associated with tinnitus

The Professional Supervisor of the Audiometric Monitoring Program© (PS/A) Course is an intermediate-level, full-day course. It emphasizes the real-world application of audiology expertise as encountered in occupational settings. Lectures review the current literature and practice guidelines. Instructors present employee case studies for participant problem-solving, critical thinking and small-group discussion. Case presentations discuss PS responsibilities, guidelines for managing problem audiograms and determination of work-relatedness.

If you are struggling to feel relevant as an audiologist in this current disruptive environment (TPAs, OTCs, Big box), you are not alone. In fact, many of your co-members decided to make a significant change, a shift in their practices and in their protocols, by obtaining a certification through the CogniHear Program as a Cognitive Hearing Healthcare Specialist. The CogniHear program, developed by Dr. Heidi Hill and licensed by Entheos, is a 1.5 day course that will provide you with knowledge of the research regarding the role cognition plays in hearing, how to use that information clinically and how to test and treat ear-to-brain for better patient experience and outcomes.

This session will discuss why hearing health and audiologists are essential to the healthcare landscape and how the use of innovative technology and best practices allow audiologists to be successful in meeting the needs of patients in a competitive landscape. Au.D. students will learn how optimal patient-centered care is accomplished by considering the whole person and gain insight into the art of fitting hearing aids for the best possible outcomes.

The most serious consequences of COVID-19 are cardiovascular and respiratory system related, but it is not surprising this elusive virus has effects on the audio-vestibular system as well. This session will provide a review of current published research on the impact of COVID-19 on hearing health along with the most relevant evidence-based clinical practice recommendations to help Au.D. students understand how to accommodate the challenges imposed by this virus.

This session will discuss the ideal methods to establish your clinic as the premier audiology practice within your market. Various options to establish your personal brand and differentiate yourself as an Au.D. will be addressed in detail. Students will gain an understanding of the tools needed to create a long-term, successful, and prosperous practice.

This session will describe the concepts of unbundled, bundled, and hybrid pricing structures; assist participants in completing a financial analysis for whether TPPs are viable in the clinic; and explain the general concepts of aural rehabilitation from a business model modality.

This session will define what Online Reputation Management is and what social media sites are important to maintain in order to manage an online reputation successfully. St. Clergy will give examples of how customer service in-clinic can build trust so that the clinic as a whole can grow and sustain an exceptional online reputation, and explain how to ask for testimonials and use an online tool to ask for reviews.

This session will identify the key elements and framework for a HIPAA compliance program, including common practice vulnerabilities related to HIPAA security and privacy, HIPAA Security safeguards, and where to go to find the Code of Federal Regulations governing HIPAA Security.

This session will identify the Codes of Ethics to which audiology assistants are held and describe potential weak spots within which audiology assistants may find themselves within the context of ethics, as well as solutions for support. The nature and relationship of the audiology assistant’s scope of practice relative to applicable codes of ethics will also be discussed.

What is the difference between sympathy, compassion, and empathy? This session will identify the steps in an empathetic response and explain how to react to a patient’s emotional response with empathy.

This session will define the neurological phenomenon of “mirroring” and demonstrate how it works, and assist participants in building a strategy for creating strong relationships with patients, and shed light on several mistakes that assistants might unknowingly make that could detrimentally affect patient care.

Audiologists will join the Audiology Assistants for a roundtable discussion.

The time is now to expand your patient services with procedures that are part of your scope of practice. Do you wish you could feel more comfortable and confident working in the ear canal? Do you want to sharpen your skills of cerumen and foreign body removal? Do you want to learn about newer products for cerumen removal? Are you a new Doctor of Audiology that would like further training or to learn proper techniques to perform cerumen management? This educational and practical workshop will cover the anatomy and physiology of the outer ear, conditions of the ear canal, otoscopic examinations, properties and characteristics of cerumen, methods of cerumen management, and related issues such as liability, reimbursement, and state licensure. This is one of the only courses in the country that offers approximately two hours for workshop participants to actually use a variety of cerumen removal instruments and equipment. Join us to learn best practices for this important part of audiology services.

This workshop will outline the history, status and inherent shortcomings of the transactional/medical model of hearing care. It will focus on the necessity for providers to shift to a patient-centered relationship model that empowers our patients to make their own decisions about personalized treatment options that are best for them. At the heart of the patient-centered relationship is the understanding of personal styles for the provider and the patient and how the application of motivational interviewing can lead to collaborative ways that nurture patients’ perceptions in realizing what personalized plans of care can best meet their unique needs.

Let Audiology Resources help you navigate your pricing journey in an interactive, hands-on training event. Bring your data, a calculator, and an open mind and we will walk you through the process, step by step! You will leave this event with tangible takeaways!

This interactive seminar is for audiology practices interested in exploring the benefits of an audiology assistant as well as for those interested in structuring the role of their current audiology assistant to get maximum benefit. You will learn how to identify the need for an audiology assistant, how to hire or cultivate an audiology assistant from within your practice, and how to realize their value to you and your patients. Through audience participation and structured worksheets, you’ll be guided through a step-by-step, goal-oriented plan tailored to your practice needs. Throughout this seminar you will learn how to enhance the quality of patient care, manage your schedule to serve more people in your community, and significantly increase revenue.

Since COVID-19 struck, many businesses shuttered and some were even forced to close down. Traditional marketing has become stagnant and money is being thrown away in poor ad campaigns. This presentation will focus on newer out-of-the-box ideas to help grow your practice, for not only the rest of 2021, but looking forward to 2022 as well.

Dizziness, vertigo, and falls are among the most common acute and chronic complaints reported to physicians. It is estimated that 90 million Americans seek help for these conditions each year. In addition, co-morbidities of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological conditions, and an aging population all contribute to a virtually limitless demographic of individuals seeking care.

The addition of neurodiagnostic vestibular evaluations within private practices can provide new sources of physician referrals, revenue, and insulation from the wide array of competitors in the hearing aid distribution landscape. Reimbursement for a comprehensive 75-minute evaluation is up over 20% in 2021 and should be strong for many years to come. This presentation will provide a systematic approach on how to create, implement and operate a profitable service within your existing four walls. A review of best practice protocols, instrumentation, patient acquisition, reimbursement, and building a referral network will be highlighted.

Are there hiccups in your claim submission process? Are you having repeated denials for claims? What is a diagnosis pointer and where does it go? This session will illustrate the required information to complete a clean claim in order to optimize and maintain a healthy practice’s cash flow.

This session will teach participants to identify and create a culture of engagement for all teams across their practices. Mr. Paolini will define the three behavioral elements of creating a culture of engagement and how to both inculcate those elements into your business and “live” them every day. He will also describe how creating a great culture will result in a great benefit to your practice by creating the best patient experience possible.

Adding any new service to an audiologist’s private practice offering requires extensive consideration of business growth and development requirements and opportunities while always focusing on obtaining the best possible patient outcomes. It is now well established that audiologists in a private practice setting can successfully integrate implantable hearing solutions, allowing providers to keep and attract patients, while developing partnerships in the medical community and tapping into an alternate revenue source for the practice. The purpose of this session is to review various considerations necessary to elevate this opportunity to the highest level for practice owners and patients alike.

Audiologists will join the Audiology Assistants for a roundtable discussion.

There are certain aspects of private practice business ownership that may seem overwhelming or just too challenging to explore. From our experience working with many private practice hearing care clinics, cash flow management can be one of the more challenging topics for business owners and those interested in pursuing ownership. Even if you have some level of comfort with business finances, do you ever ask yourself any of the following questions? What information should I be watching in my finances? How do I read cash flow statements? Is there a better way that I could manage my cash flows? Join us as we delve into the topic of cash flow management to help you understand and improve your ability to drive profit and business value.

Although TikTok is largely populated by teens, health care professionals have been increasingly using social media to share information, debate policy and practice issues, promote healthy behaviors, and interact with patients.

This session will guide attendees in finding the right job. We’ll start with an in-depth discussion of the current employment landscape in hearing healthcare. Additionally, we will help attendees understand the importance of creating their own unique brand and offer a detailed process on how to accomplish this. The process will include a “how-to” on projecting the traits and attributes employers covet throughout the hiring process. Finally, using deductive reasoning, we will demonstrate a methodology that attendees can use to figure out the environment and culture that represents their best fit.

Adding any new service to an audiologist’s private practice offering requires extensive consideration of business growth and development requirements and opportunities while always focusing on obtaining the best possible patient outcomes. It is now well established that audiologists in a private practice setting can successfully integrate implantable hearing solutions, allowing providers to keep and attract patients, while developing partnerships in the medical community and tapping into an alternate revenue source for the practice. The purpose of this session is to review various considerations necessary to elevate this opportunity to the highest level for practice owners and patients alike.

Describing lessons learned during a career spanning .com, .edu and .org across multiple countries and job environments, this presentation will speak to the opportunities audiology has to unleash itself to enable more people to hear better.

This symposium will use a rapid fire approach to address critical advocacy issues affecting audiologists and their patients. The results of the ADA Telehealth Survey will be presented, as will key updates related to proposed rules for OTC hearing aids, the Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act (MAASA) and Medicare expansion.

Dr. Victor Bray will deliver remarks to attendees regarding ADA’s recent achievements, current objectives, and a vision for the future. Exceptional audiologists will be recognized.

It can be said that the disability community is experiencing a revolution. Disability empowerment and pride are at an all time high as society witnesses unprecedented disability visibility in myriads of spaces –entertainment, corporate, government, publishing, and social media, just to name a few. What we are seeing is a drastic shift further away from the outdated medical model of disability, which defines disability as an illness and champions curing or at least managing the illness or purported intrinsic physical condition. However, lingering stereotypes and prejudices stemming from the medical model of disability are still in effect today, albeit now described with terms such as ableism and audism. Meanwhile, conversations have expanded beyond the confines of disability rights and equality to encompass disability justice and equity. Gordon will highlight noteworthy developments across the disability community and impart her perspectives, via her lived experience as a black, deaf woman, on why the audiologist profession ought to take note.

The ability to influence a consumer has changed radically and a new battleground has emerged. It’s not a battle of products and services but a battle of perceptions. Perceptions of consumers as to why and how to make the right choice for their hearing healthcare needs. This new world requires a new strategy to positively impact your practice while at the same time, positively impacting public health. Learn how to leverage new strategies, tools, and technology to expand practice influence, impact, and growth.

The ability to influence and impact a consumer has changed dramatically over the past few years and a new frontier is in view. The real opportunity for audiologists is not centered around selling more devices but delivering more care and service that is centered around health education, prevention, chronic illness screening and risk assessment. This session will focus on the expanded role that hearing professionals are well-positioned to play in the healthcare ecosystem along with the new tools, technology, and, most importantly, new mindset necessary to be successful.

Patient access to hearing healthcare sets the baseline for all patient encounters in pursuit of treatment. When a patient cannot access a clinician, it is impossible to receive care, build relationships with providers, and achieve proper treatments. Despite this importance, patient care access is not a reality for many patients across the country. This session will discuss the types of barriers that face many patients and provide bridges to overcome these obstacles.

This session will uncover insights from a recent research study and host a panel discussion on improving the patient journey. Uncertainty is a key emotion that can cause patients to forego, hesitate, or delay accepting hearing care. The provider panel will discuss ways they have successfully removed or minimized uncertainty, overcoming barriers, including the cost of care.

Many studies have found an association between untreated hearing loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other types of cognitive issues. These studies determine that patients with hearing loss are more likely to develop cognitive problems than people who do not have hearing loss. This session will discuss the importance of audiologists to identify potential cognitive decline and how to implement this in an audiology practice.

Audiology student teams will compete and showcase their business skills for a chance to receive a $5,000 ADA cash grant to be used to advance business objectives and enhance leadership skills. During the live event, each team will deliver a 10-minute presentation, which will be followed by a 5-minute Q&A (with some questions coming from the audience). Join us and cheer on the next generation of audiologists as they take their first steps toward private practice ownership.

With disruptions to hearing aid dispensing, the need to integrate audiology into the medical model and provide more value with evidence-based care is critical. Audiology has a wide scope. While audiologists have vast expert knowledge, many dispensing audiologists focus on the ever-changing technology and business landscape and may feel disconnected from ongoing research limiting their ability to provide differential diagnosis. Many yearn to be more thorough, yet it is overwhelming. Tools, tricks, and tests exist allowing an audiologist to provide more holistic care to their patients without needing to specialize. This presentation will implore dispensing doctors to focus on additional tools and diagnostic procedures to not only evaluate the entire person, but to use best practices and determine differential diagnoses. Each specialty within audiology will be discussed and particular tools will be identified so the audiologist can implement the procedure immediately and monitor outcomes.

Did the pandemic paralyze you or inspire you to move towards setting new goals and achieving them? A goal without a plan is just a wish and even a hobby. Let’s examine how we, as forward-thinking audiologists, can lead with a growth mindset over a fixed mindset. This presentation will introduce you to the process of appropriate goal-setting along with the strategy of taking ACTion to attain those goals.

Tinnitus is experienced by 50 million Americans and can be problematic or debilitating for many. Mindfulness Based Tinnitus Stress Reduction (MBTSR), has shown promise as an effective tool in managing tinnitus. A recent study assessed the effectiveness of an 8-week online MBTSR program during a pandemic using the Tinnitus Functional Index and Perceived Stress Scale. Statistically significant differences (i.e., self-reported improvement) were found between all of the measures and sub-measures between the pre, mid, and post time points. Results were maintained at 6 months follow-up. This seminar addresses the need to gain easy and inexpensive access to evidence-based effective tinnitus treatment from the privacy of one’s home, as it greatly reduces the pressures on audiologists and existing health care systems, which was found particularly helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Distribution channels in the hearing aid industry are changing. As more individuals purchase hearing devices through direct-to-consumer sites, retail dispensing channels and third-party hearing aid service providers, the medical community will continue to lose medical oversight of this population.

From a medical management perspective, getting a hearing aid does not provide a continuum of care necessary to mitigate lifelong issues associated with age related hearing loss and its progression. Recognition of comorbid events associated with Sensori Neural Hearing Loss (SNHL) suggests that current treatment protocols may not be identifying critical patient maladies. How might treatment protocols change for SNHL if audiology is to position itself as a primary driver of the medical management team for patients with SNHL?

In today’s evolving health care landscape, we will explore what a continuum of care might look like for SNHL and tools to help medical professionals manage this cohort of patients.

There are a large and growing number of patients needing evidenced-based audiologic care in rural areas. According to the 2016 US Census, there were 46.2 million adults over the age of 65, with 10.6 million living in rural areas. Research indicates as many as half of adults over the age of 75 will experience a hearing loss, while vertigo and/or dizziness may affect 70% of adults aged 65 or older, creating a growing need for specialty healthcare services. These staggering numbers present vital opportunities for audiologists to improve hearing and balance quality of life in rural areas. During this presentation, personal experiences will be shared to show how private practice audiologists can thrive in rural environments by working in a very specific field or to their full scope of practice, including hiring medical (ENT) support personnel. By the end, attendees will be optimistic and passionate to open a practice, or second location in under-served areas around the United States.

Documentation can serve many roles in healthcare. One is a means of communicating and coordinating care plans across many healthcare providers. Another is providing information to a patient and their family on their condition and how to best treat or manage their chief complaints. Yet another outlines medical necessity and provides evidence for third-party coverage. Documentation can protect healthcare providers in the event of malpractice suits, licensure complaints or audit. Finally, documentation and the resulting report can be a productive means of physician outreach and marketing. This workshop will focus on the keys to successful documentation in an audiology practice so we too can benefit from all of the opportunities documentation can afford.

A data breach and its consequences seem abstract and unlikely until it happens to you. Yet, most people have heard “it’s not if it will happen, but when” an incident will occur. How can audiologists prevent breaches and prepare to respond quickly and effectively to recover with minimal impact if an incident occurs? Learn how to proactively minimize the chance of costly downtime before a breach with free and affordable steps you can implement now, including an incident response plan. Discover how cyber insurance can mitigate some data breach risks and costs. In case a breach occurs, be prepared with specific actions to take, especially the 3 essential things you must do first. It’s the “Stop, Drop, and Roll” of cyber fires!

Tinnitus is an unavoidable condition in an audiology practice. While every audiologist does not need to be an expert in tinnitus care, every audiology practice can benefit from recognizing tinnitus presentation and making appropriate referrals to help adult and pediatric patients with tinnitus. This course will provide participants with the necessary concepts and tools to recognize tinnitus, uncover what the patient is experiencing and determine the appropriate referral to an outside provider. While this course will not teach participants to diagnose and care for patients with tinnitus, those wishing to engage in higher-level tinnitus care will find this course helpful in beginning to identify and triage various types of tinnitus.

This session will address why hearing care needs this new category of learning hearing aids, what the learning cycle is, how a learning hearing aid transforms the way we think about hearing care, and how it can be integrated into your practice.

Dr. Davis has developed a music-based auditory training program to promote better hearing and cognitive health based on five key benefits:

• Promotion of neuroplasticity
• Improvement of cognitive abilities and speech processing in noise processing
• Potential promotion of healthy aging in the brain
• Benefits for overall health
• Benefits of engaging in a rewarding activity

As the public has recognized the importance of cognitive health, brain training apps have become a big business. However, research has shown that users of these apps simply get better at the games in these apps; over time they show little if any real-world benefit. Dr. Davis’s program uses music as a form of training based on research that proves short-term music training creates life-long benefit. This presentation will summarize the neuromusical research and how it correlates with audiology, including ways to implement music training with patients immediately.

This interactive workshop will focus on illustrating the opportunities that exist, beyond hearing aids, for the profession of audiology. While many of these skills were taught in Au.D. programs, many audiologists have not integrated these services into their practices. Many of these services require little to no additional equipment, have a significant private pay component, can improve physician referrals and most importantly, influence patient outcomes, performance, satisfaction and perceptions of a practice.

Many hours are spent studying the various aspects of ethical principles and practices, to understand codes, guidelines, and related regulations. Rarely, however are professionals apprised of the processes of resolving unethical behavior or mitigating ethics issues. What process model is recommended when a professional observes a fellow clinician engaging in unethical behavior? How should one respond: should they themselves be accused of unethical practice? What processes do regulatory agencies and codes of ethics provide for professionals? This presentation will explore and outline the process of ethics resolution in cases where ethics codes may have been breached. This model will review and discuss resolutions at the lowest and most effective levels, while addressing the most egregious violations and the resolution interventions necessary for more serious concerns. Ultimately, the discussion will center around how resolutions can protect patients, clinicians, as well as the profession.

Three new CPT codes and reimbursement rates were established in 2021 for Cervical and Ocular VEMP. VEMP testing is not new and is a well-established, highly coveted diagnostic protocol, although it has not been widely used in the USA due to the absence of reimbursement. It is among the most sensitive, easy, and non-invasive protocols which can be performed on neonates to adults. The VEMP, although a myogenic potential, may be performed in less than 5 minutes using readily available Evoked Potential (EP) instrumentation. The presentation will highlight the anatomical and physiological pathways for Cervical and Ocular VEMP and the recording techniques for myogenic potentials. A comprehensive overview of the diagnostic applications for both Otologic and Neurologic disorders will be discussed, including; Migraine, Meniere’s, Brainstem Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, and Vestibular Neuritis. The AIB has utilized VEMP testing since 2003 and will present representative case studies.

Recently, traditional hearing aids have converged with consumer audio devices to create a new category of products, called hybrid devices. These devices offer persons with hearing difficulties the opportunity to improve communication and health-related quality of life. To fully realize the benefits of hybrid devices, however, it is essential for audiologists to understand the link between self-reported hearing difficulties and their impact on health-related quality of life outcomes. This course will review the relationship between self-reported hearing difficulties, contrast it with objective hearing loss of adult onset, and discuss its consequences on health-related quality of life outcomes. Several factors related to quality of life, including social, functional, physical and emotional aspects will be covered. Additionally, the course will review how quality of life factors can be assessed in the clinic and applied to the goal setting, treatment planning, and intervention process.

This interactive workshop will focus on illustrating the opportunities that exist, beyond hearing aids, for the profession of audiology. While many of these skills were taught in Au.D. programs, many audiologists have not integrated these services into their practices. Many of these services require little to no additional equipment, have a significant private pay component, can improve physician referrals and most importantly, influence patient outcomes, performance, satisfaction and perceptions of a practice.

Hearing aids purchased with private funds, directly from medical professionals, is the fastest shrinking distribution channel in the hearing aid industry. Across the nation, participation in 3rd party plans for hearing aids under Medicare Advantage plans is rising, and reimbursement rates are flatlining or declining. In the face of these trends, clinics can feel stuck reacting to their 3rd party insurance partners. The goal of this session is to look at proactive approaches your clinic can take to manage 3rd party contracts and optimize your margin per clinical hour.

Disabling auditory features are inherent in autism. Evidence from audiology, neuroscience, and neuro-developmental research all highlight the differences in how autistic brains filter and interpret sensory input. It is no surprise that listening difficulties and sound sensitivities are among the most commonly experienced. Complex, interdependent processing of the dynamic qualities of running speech can be particularly problematic, and presumably contribute to the large prevalence of speech and language delay in autism (being among the first noticeable signs). Screening and early intervention is pivotal in identifying and supporting children with any communicative disability. Audiologists are conspicuously absent from the team of go-to experts, however. How might we (individually or collectively) change the perception of audiologists as sensory end-organ diagnosticians into longer-term therapeutic care providers? Perplexing, considering the promising evidence base unique to our field.

The importance of speech audibility is well recognized in the literature for persons with hearing loss. What is less known are the physiological changes occurring in the upper auditory pathways associated with poor speech audibility in this population. This presentation will provide a step-by-step procedure for achieving and maintaining appropriate speech audibility and will describe further actions necessary to increase the likelihood of favorable cognitive, vocational and academic outcomes in both adults and children.

This session will review the committee task, process, outcome, rational, and next steps for the recent report "Meaningful Outcome Measures in Adult Hearing Health Care" from The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine that culminated in a recommended core outcome set of measures for clinical and research studies related to non-surgical or implant hearing interventions.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify the task of the National Academies Committee
• Describe the process for identifying core outcome domains and specific recommended questionnaires
• Identify the current recommended core set of outcome measures for non-surgical hearing interventions

By equipping essential staff with these core competencies, hearing care professionals can spend more time focused on clinical care. The long-term impact? A more efficient practice, improved patient outcomes, and measurable time savings across your team. A trained Technology Specialist streamlines workflow and reduces the time spent on technical support tasks—where it counts the most.

The landscape of health care is shifting, fueled by patients who are no longer passive recipients of care but active participants in their health journeys. Rebel Health: A Field Guide to the Patient-Led Revolution in Medical Care explores this growing movement and its profound implications for patients, clinicians, and the health system at large.

Join us for this featured keynote presentation with Susannah Fox, weaving together research, stories, and lessons from her book. The session will then transition to a moderated panel featuring patients who have developed their own strategies, technologies, and communities to address gaps in care, with special attention to the lived experiences of people with hearing loss, auditory processing disorders, and tinnitus. Together, we will examine what clinicians can learn from these pioneers, and how audiology can embrace patient-led insights to improve outcomes and equity in hearing care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Define and Apply the Rebel Health Framework
• Describe the four archetypes of patient innovators (Seekers, Networkers, Solvers, and Champions)
• Identify patient-initiated advocacy, support networks, and tools that address unmet needs in hearing care and tinnitus management
• Develop strategies for partnering with patients as co-creators of knowledge, resources, and solutions, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive and resilient model of audiologic care

This dynamic session will highlight the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and recent initiatives undertaken by the Coalition for Health AI aligned with its mission to advance the responsible development, deployment and oversight of AI by fostering collaboration across the health sector.

The second half of the session will feature a panel of experts in audiology, data science, policy, and security, who will discuss applications for AI in audiologic diagnostics and rehabilitation, the benefits and limitations of such applications, and practical and ethical considerations.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the Coalition for Health AI’s responsible AI framework and its core principles
• Describe how predictive AI models can forecast patient risk trajectories
• Differentiate between generative and prescriptive AI approaches that enhance patient engagement and care efficiency
• Critically appraise the role of agentic AI systems (autonomous, goal-directed agents) in audiology workflows, including ethical, safety, and governance considerations
• Describe how CHAI’s initiatives and policy work are shaping responsible AI adoption
• List security and privacy risks associated with AI in healthcare and describe mitigation strategies

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

An Optometrist, a Dentist, and a Veterinarian Walk Into an Audiology Conference explores how audiology can learn from the experiences of fellow doctoring professions that have navigated many of the same challenges in private practice, managed care, and interdisciplinary integration. While each discipline serves unique patient populations, all share common ground in balancing clinical excellence with sustainable business practices, ensuring patient access to care, and positioning their profession within the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Through engaging case examples and cross-disciplinary insights, participants will discover how optometry, dentistry, and veterinary medicine have successfully tackled issues such as reimbursement models, patient financing, collaborative care pathways, and practice innovation. This session will highlight practical lessons audiologists can apply to strengthen their role in integrated care, enhance financial sustainability, and elevate the patient experience in both private practice and institutional settings.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe how optometry, dentistry, and veterinary medicine have integrated into broader health systems and identify strategies audiology can adapt to strengthen its role in interdisciplinary care and patient-centered outcomes
• Evaluate financing and reimbursement strategies used in dentistry, optometry, and veterinary care (e.g., third-party managed care, direct-pay models, patient financing programs) and apply these insights to develop more sustainable practice models in audiology that improve patient access while maintaining financial viability
• Compare innovations in private practice management across clinical doctoring professions, including approaches to patient loyalty, preventive care education, and the use of extenders to enhance competitiveness and long-term patient relationships.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

As state audiology associations continue to modernize and harmonize their scope-of-practice statutes, audiologists are increasingly empowered with the tools necessary to evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat complex auditory and vestibular conditions. A critical component of this evolving scope includes the judicious ordering of radiographic imaging. Successful implementation requires a collaborative framework between audiologists and radiologists to ensure accurate diagnosis and management of comprehensive patient care.

This multidisciplinary session—led by one radiologist and two audiologists—offers an in-depth exploration of the diagnostic role of imaging in audio-vestibular medicine. The session will combine didactic instruction with practical, case-based learning to deepen attendees' understanding of when and how to incorporate imaging into clinical decision-making.

The radiologist will provide targeted instruction on a range of imaging modalities, including Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA), ultrasound, and plain film X-rays. These modalities will be discussed in the context of their specific contributions to the differential diagnosis of auditory and/or vestibular disorders. Attendees will develop a clearer understanding of:

• The appropriate use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) versus MRA for evaluating inner ear and retrocochlear pathologies, including vestibular schwannomas and vascular anomalies
• The role of ultrasound in assessing vascular contributions to dizziness and other balance disorders, particularly in cases where vertebrobasilar insufficiency is suspected
• Targeted applications of plain film X-rays in otologic evaluation, including temporal bone abnormalities and ossicular chain disruptions
• Strategies to foster effective interdisciplinary communication between audiologists and radiologists to enhance diagnostic accuracy and streamline patient management

Through two case presentations presented by the audiologists, attendees will gain practical insight into how collaborative diagnostic imaging can directly inform treatment pathways and significantly improve effective and timely clinical outcomes. This session is ideal for audiologists seeking to refine their diagnostic acumen, engage more effectively with radiology colleagues, and responsibly integrate imaging into their expanding clinical toolkit.

Attendees will be able to:

• Differentiate between MRI and MRA and identify appropriate clinical indications for each in the diagnosis of auditory and retrocochlear pathologies
• Describe the role of ultrasound in evaluating vascular contributions to vestibular symptoms, including dizziness and imbalance
• Recognize the limited but targeted diagnostic applications of plain film X-rays in otologic assessment
• Apply case-based decision-making strategies to determine when imaging is warranted in audio-vestibular disorders
• Demonstrate effective interdisciplinary communication techniques to enhance collaboration between audiologists and radiologists, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in business operations is transforming the healthcare landscape, and audiology practices stand to benefit significantly. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing marketing strategies across industries, and audiology practices can harness its power to enhance consumer outreach. This seminar will focus on how AI-driven tactics can improve patient engagement, personalize communication, and drive consumer interest in hearing healthcare services. By leveraging AI tools such as chatbots, predictive analytics, voice search optimization, automated content creation, and hyper-personalized advertising, audiologists can effectively attract and retain patients. Attendees will gain practical insights into implementing AI-powered marketing techniques to expand their reach, increase patient conversion rates, and optimize the overall patient experience.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the role of AI in modern consumer-focused marketing strategies for audiology practices
• Identify key AI tools and technologies that enhance direct patient outreach and engagement, such as chatbots, automated email campaigns, and personalized digital ads to attract and retain patients
• Develop an AI-powered marketing framework tailored to their practice’s consumer engagement goals

With the growing demands in audiology practices, empowering your team with additional skills is not just a smart investment—it’s a necessity. This course covers how to uncover the measurable benefits of having a well-trained practice extender—enhancing your clinic's efficiency, increasing revenue, and elevating the patient experience. This course will also introduce the Phonak Technology Specialist Training Program which equips staff to take on key support tasks, saving your clinic valuable hours each week.

Give your staff the tools they need to succeed and let your practice thrive.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the financial and operational impact of incorporating extenders in an audiology practice
• Analyze data and assess potential profitability with optimized workflows
• Describe the role of practice extenders in increasing revenue and creating efficiencies
• List opportunities to use practice extenders to improve patient care by minimizing clinic disruptions and keeping appointments running on time

This presentation will discuss the results of MarkeTrak25, and provide a comprehensive overview of the hearing aid industry, highlighting key trends and developments shaping its future. We will include new data on hearing aid adoption, OTC usage, cochlear implant overview and key data on hearing loss by age. We will also compare the latest data from MT25 to MT22 to provide insights into changes in market dynamics. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the intersection of industry trends and consumer empowerment.

This lecture will provide the following insights: 1) a look into the issues that examined in MarkeTrak 2025; 2) the delivery of hearing healthcare and how the issues discussed may influence the hearing industry; 3) A look into the evolving consumer experience.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the different forces impacting the delivery of hearing health care and hearing aids
• Describe the impact of OTC devices including acquisition and usage
• Integrate insights to improve the consumer experience

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics states that the employment of audiologists is projected to grow 11 percent between now and 2032. Are your practice and your team ready to grow alongside the industry? Attend this course to get the tools and knowledge needed to find, attract, interview, and retain top candidates in a competitive market.

Attendees will be able to:

• Build and execute a successful recruitment cycle for an audiology practice
• Attract and retain job candidates to align with business goals
• Engage with and support new employees through onboarding processes in an audiology practice

Many audiologists struggle to communicate effectively with physicians, feeling intimidated by medical marketing or unsure how to position themselves as essential healthcare partners. This session equips audiologists with the tools to effectively educate physicians, address common objections, and streamline the referral process. Attendees will learn how to frame hearing loss as a medical concern linked to dementia, fall risk, and cardiovascular health, making it a priority in primary care. Through concise messaging strategies, practical referral tools, and interactive exercises, audiologists will gain confidence in building physician relationships. This hybrid lecture and workshop format provides actionable steps to increase referrals and position private practice audiologists as the preferred choice over retail chains.

Attendees will be able to:

• Effectively communicate the importance of hearing healthcare and overcome intimidation in medical marketing
• Describe common concerns about referrals, patient costs, and time constraints, to position audiology as a key part of patient care
• Implement an Effective Referral Strategy

How we market, educate, and advocate for audiology is changing—are we keeping up? This session will examine the readability and accessibility of hearing healthcare materials that prompt new engineering strategies using AI-powered tools to optimize marketing, physician referrals, and advocacy messaging.. Attendees will learn how advanced AI prompts can generate effective, engaging, and audience-specific content, ensuring audiologists’ messages reach patients, providers, and policymakers. We will highlight real-world disparities and provide actionable AI-driven solutions to improve communication in private practice. AI is the future of audiology advocacy—this session will show you how to use it effectively.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the importance of healthcare literacy and readability in hearing healthcare materials and how AI-powered prompt engineering can optimize patient communication, physician referrals, and advocacy efforts
• Apply AI-driven marketing strategies to improve clinic visibility, patient engagement, and collaboration with physicians and policymakers, ensuring content is accessible to diverse literacy levels
• Develop prompt engineering skills to generate customized, strategic, and easy-to-understand content that enhances accessibility and empowers private practices to communicate effectively with patients and stakeholders

Crucial conversations are an inevitable part of any private practice, but they can often feel uncomfortable or lead to unproductive outcomes. Whether you’re addressing a co-worker, employee, or patient, conversations with strong emotions, high stakes and differing opinions can be challenging. In this session, you’ll learn proven techniques from Crucial Learning and cognitive behavioral methods to navigate these high-stakes moments with confidence. This course will help you create safety in conversations, allowing you to communicate openly with almost anyone about anything. You’ll learn to identify and resolve communication barriers, stay composed when emotions run high, and articulate your needs while respecting others’ viewpoints. By mastering these tools, you’ll strengthen relationships, achieve better results, and transform difficult interactions into opportunities for growth.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe how to create safety with their co-workers, employees or patients so they can talk with almost anyone about almost anything
• Identify problems contributing to poor results and struggling relationships
• Describe how to keep composure when feeling angry or defensive and identify what stories they may be telling themselves

As hearing aid technology advances, so must our clinical approach, especially when working with older adults who often present with both peripheral hearing loss and central auditory or cognitive decline. This session examines how standard hearing aid fittings may fall short for these patients, and in some cases, introduce distortion that worsens speech perception and increases listening effort.

Attendees will be able to:

• Apply cognitive-informed fitting strategies to reduce distortion and support real-world communication
• Integrate auditory processing and cognitive considerations into hearing aid selection, programming, and counseling
• Apply core acoustic principles to minimize distortion and optimize clarity in complex patients
• Describe how to critically evaluate and apply advanced AI-driven features in hearing aids to enhance selection and programming, particularly for patients with complex auditory and cognitive needs

This evidence-based, interdisciplinary session will review current evidence and discuss potential strategies for the prevention and monitoring of cisplatin-related ototoxicity. It will include information about pharmacologic interventions using sodium thiosulfate, as well as practical guidance on integrating audiologic surveillance into oncology care models.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity and its implications for long-term quality of life in pediatric and adult populations
• Summarize current evidence and clinical guidelines for the use of sodium thiosulfate (STS) as an otoprotective agent during cisplatin chemotherapy
• Describe challenges faced by oncologists in obtaining timely access to audiology services for their patients
• Identify best practices for developing audiology monitoring networks, including interprofessional communication protocols with oncology teams
• Demonstrate knowledge of portable audiologic screening technologies and how these tools can be deployed in oncology clinics, infusion centers, and inpatient settings for ongoing ototoxicity surveillance

Research suggests that many persons with hearing loss lack effective coping skills and tend to avoid social interactions, often deepening their isolation and loneliness. This course explores the relationship between hearing loss and social connectedness, including how properly fitted hearing aids and other audiological interventions might promote better social engagement through improved communication in multi-talker, noisy situations, reduced listening-related fatigue, restored music enjoyment, increased confidence and positive social impact.

Attendees will be able to:

• Define social disconnectedness and its impact on daily living
• Describe the relationship between age-related hearing loss and social connectedness
• Describe how the fitting of hearing aids could improve the various facets of social engagement

Cerumen management is a foundational skill in audiology practice, but mastery requires advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with evolving tools and techniques. This advanced workshop provides participants with intensive, practical training in the safe and effective removal of cerumen using the latest equipment, including suction systems, endoscopic visualization, irrigation devices, and precision instruments. Through live demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will refine their technique, enhance patient safety, and gain confidence in managing even the most complex cerumen impaction cases. This interactive session emphasizes real-world application, troubleshooting, and clinical decision-making to support best practices in ear care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing advanced cerumen management tools, including suction, irrigation, and endoscopic systems, to safely and effectively remove cerumen
• Apply evidence-based clinical decision-making to select the most appropriate cerumen management method for diverse patient presentations, including complex or challenging cases
• Identify and mitigate risks by recognizing potential complications during cerumen removal and employing strategies to maximize patient comfort and safety

Research links hearing loss with increased fall risk in adults, a growing concern as populations age. A novel mobile application, leveraging hearing aid motion sensor data, supports early identification and intervention, aligning with the CDC’s STEADI initiative. This presentation explores integrating this technology into audiology practices, focusing on its efficacy for autonomous falls risk screening, functional assessments of gait, strength, and balance, and guided balance exercises. We will present data on the application’s reliability, the impact of clinical instruction, and practical strategies to empower clinicians in monitoring and mitigating fall risks effectively.

Attendees will be able to:

• Summarize key findings from relevant research studies linking hearing loss to fall risk and their implications for audiology practice
• List the key components of the CDC’s STEADI initiative and their relevance to integrating falls risk technology in audiology practice
• Describe how falls risk management, using hearing aid motion sensor technology, improves patient outcomes in audiology care

Here we present speech recognition data in quiet and noise from thousands of patients with hearing loss. These data support using speech-in-noise testing as the default in audiologic assessment, reserving word-recognition in quiet for when performance is likely to be suoboptimal. We will also demonstrate between-session repeatability of speech tests as a function of hearing loss and baseline performance. Finally, we will show preliminary results from our AI-based tool for automatic speech recognition, which is capable of scoring audiologic tests in any language. Taken together, this research aims to modernize audiologic practice and better align testing with patient concerns.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Describe the relationship between speech recognition in quiet and noise
2. Articulate how repeatability of speech recognition tests change with increasing hearing loss
3. Describe new developments in artificial intelligence for scoring tests of speech recognition in quiet and noise

Lifestyle medicine offers an evidence-based framework for preventing and managing chronic conditions, with pillars such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, social connection, stress management, and avoidance of risky substances. Audiologists are uniquely positioned to champion hearing health as a vital part of social connectedness, and bridging the gap between lifestyle medicine and associated auditory and vestibular conditions.

This course introduces audiologists to the principles of lifestyle medicine and demonstrates how they can contribute to interdisciplinary health promotion and patient-centered outcomes. Participants will learn practical strategies to position their practice within the lifestyle medicine ecosystem through effective marketing approaches. The session will include a sample outreach plan for building collaborations with lifestyle medicine professionals, as well as templates and customizable resources to support ongoing marketing and advocacy efforts.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Describe the role of audiologists within the framework of lifestyle medicine
2. Describe how auditory and vestibular conditions align with the six pillars of lifestyle medicine
3. Develop strategies to integrate hearing care into lifestyle medicine conversations and practices
4. Apply practical marketing tools and resources to strengthen partnerships with lifestyle medicine professionals

Auracast is now reality, with facilities installing it alongside their present assistive listening system or by itself. There are already HCPs advocating for Auracast at venues their patients frequent, and you can too. Some with audio experience are even offering to install it themselves.

This session will begin with a brief review of what Auracast is, what devices are available, and what’s coming. That will be followed by examples of recent installations and their outcomes, then focus on how to approach and speak to local venues about the value of Auracast, review of available tools, and how equipment is obtained.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Give some examples of venues that have already installed Auracast
2. Explain why Auracast adds value to both venues and users in different environments
3. Share the cost, how to buy, and installation requirements when Auracast is added on top of an existing system, or by itself

Cerumen management is a foundational skill in audiology practice, but mastery requires advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with evolving tools and techniques. This advanced workshop provides participants with intensive, practical training in the safe and effective removal of cerumen using the latest equipment, including suction systems, endoscopic visualization, irrigation devices, and precision instruments. Through live demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will refine their technique, enhance patient safety, and gain confidence in managing even the most complex cerumen impaction cases. This interactive session emphasizes real-world application, troubleshooting, and clinical decision-making to support best practices in ear care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing advanced cerumen management tools, including suction, irrigation, and endoscopic systems, to safely and effectively remove cerumen
• Apply evidence-based clinical decision-making to select the most appropriate cerumen management method for diverse patient presentations, including complex or challenging cases
• Identify and mitigate risks by recognizing potential complications during cerumen removal and employing strategies to maximize patient comfort and safety

Aural rehabilitation has long been underutilized, despite strong evidence that it improves hearing aid adoption, reduces returns, and enhances patient outcomes. Lace AI Pro is redefining auditory training with an AI-powered, patient-led platform that makes aural rehabilitation practical and scalable for modern clinics. This session will explore how patient-led training can enhance hearing care, improve speech-in-noise comprehension, and strengthen cognitive function. Attendees will see a fun, live demonstration of key features and gain actionable strategies for integrating aural rehab into clinical workflows without adding to their workload. Attendees will also get a first look at new patient data showing that compliance with AI-powered aural rehab now surpasses that of physical therapy—the gold standard for rehabilitation in medicine.

Attendees will be able to:

• Explain the research-backed connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline
• Implement patient-led auditory rehabilitation strategies to support cognitive function and engagement
• Describe strategies to position hearing health as a key factor in brain health to improve patient compliance and long-term outcomes

Hearing aid functionality has evolved with changes in global communication technology, proving beneficial for individuals with hearing loss. However, for those working within secure locations, this can be problematic. The number of individuals wearing hearing aids is on the rise, and many of these patients work within Secure Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) environments. The two features allowing seamless communication between hearing aids and communication devices (Bluetooth and bidirectional microphones) are considered security risks within these facilities. However, collaboration between industry, audiology, and the intelligence community has resulted in a solution so these patients can receive the full benefits of amplification.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the challenges audiologists face when fitting hearing aids to patients who work with secure compartmented information facility (SCIF) environments
• List the features of hearing aids that are considered “high-risk” to governing bodies within SCIF environments
• Utilize strategies currently used by providers within the National Capital Region (NCR) for fitting hearing aids to individuals working within SCIF environments

This is an introductory course discussing the basic principles of vestibular and balance anatomy, physiology, and assessment. Clinical assessment of a patient's dizziness is often complex using both a variety of clinical objective tools and a number of subjective patient symptom scales. Making sense of it all can often be overwhelming. This presentation will attempt to clarify the various outcomes measures from common vestibular assessments and how they work together to describe a comprehensive vestibular and balance patient profile and, at times, even support an underlying diagnosis.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system and how each clinical assessment tool relates to vestibular physiology and function
• Recite the basic principles of a comprehensive vestibular assessment
• Describe how each vestibular assessment measure contributes (and compliments one another) when developing a patient's vestibular and balance profile.

Modernizing state audiology practice acts is essential to ensure that licensure laws accurately reflect the education, training, and scope of practice of today’s audiologists. Outdated statutes can create barriers to patient care, limit professional autonomy, and misalign with advances in clinical practice. This course will provide audiologists with a framework for identifying deficiencies in their state’s practice act, strategies for building a strong advocacy coalition, and tools for effectively engaging with legislators and regulatory bodies. Drawing on the successful modernization of the Maryland State Audiology Practice Act, participants will gain practical insights and actionable skills to advance similar reforms in their own states, ultimately strengthening both the profession and access to quality hearing and balance care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Analyze their state’s current audiology practice act to identify outdated provisions and gaps between statutory language and the contemporary education, training, and scope of practice of audiologists
• Develop an advocacy strategy that includes coalition building with stakeholders, message development, and prioritization of legislative goals to support modernization efforts
• Apply effective communication techniques to educate policymakers, regulatory boards, and the public on the importance of updating audiology practice acts to improve patient access and protect public health.

Tinnitus continues to challenge clinicians with its diverse presentations and often complex etiology. As our understanding of tinnitus evolves, audiologists must be equipped with diagnostic precision, therapeutic agility, and patient-centered strategies. This three-hour workshop is designed for clinicians seeking to sharpen their skills and integrate the latest science into practice.

Participants will explore current theories on tinnitus generation and persistence—spanning the auditory, somatosensory, and limbic systems—while gaining insight into advanced diagnostic techniques and up-to-date tinnitus management strategies.

Through interactive case studies, attendees will refine their ability to tailor care based on tinnitus subtype, distress level, and comorbid factors. Bring your questions and interesting cases so we can walk through them together. Emphasis will also be placed on building an effective care plan, including referrals when appropriate to optimize outcomes.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify tinnitus etiologies and subtypes
• Describe a range of diagnostic methods and testing protocols that can be used to guide treatment decisions
• Describe evidence-based tinnitus management strategies and when they are appropriate
• Identify situations that warrant referral for advanced tinnitus treatment
• Demonstrate how to communicate findings effectively during collaborative care

Private practice ownership in audiology offers independence and opportunity, but it also carries a host of legal and compliance responsibilities. From employment law and patient privacy to contracts, billing practices, and risk management, today’s practice owners must navigate a complex legal landscape while focusing on patient care and business growth. This session will explore the most pressing legal issues that practice owners face. Through practical examples, attendees will gain a clear understanding of their legal obligations, common pitfalls to avoid, and proactive strategies to protect their practices. Whether you are a new practice owner or a seasoned professional, this course will provide tools and insights to strengthen compliance, mitigate risk, and support long-term success.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify and interpret key legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements impacting audiology practices
• Recognize common legal pitfalls in contracts, employment arrangements, and business operations, and apply strategies to mitigate associated risks
• Develop proactive compliance practices and risk management policies to safeguard their practice against legal disputes, audits, and regulatory enforcement

The new CPT hearing aid service codes, that are slated to go into effect on January 1, 2026, completely alter the hearing aid billing landscape. In this presentation, we will provide a detailed discussion on each code, their probable and appropriate uses, modifiers, and documentation requirements.

In light of these changes and their potential impact on practice operations and revenues, will also discuss the pros and cons of health plan network participation, including the steps to evaluating a health plan contracts and allowable rates schedules. We will provide a step-by-step guide to evaluating a specific managed care agreement and making the business decision on network participation.

Attendees will be able to:

• List the new hearing aid service codes for 2026
• List the CPT codes that are scheduled to be deleted on January 1, 2026
• List the common pros and cons of health plan network participation
• Locate applicable health plan medical and coverage policies
• Describe the steps required to make health plan participation decisions

Tinnitus continues to challenge clinicians with its diverse presentations and often complex etiology. As our understanding of tinnitus evolves, audiologists must be equipped with diagnostic precision, therapeutic agility, and patient-centered strategies. This three-hour workshop is designed for clinicians seeking to sharpen their skills and integrate the latest science into practice.

Participants will explore current theories on tinnitus generation and persistence—spanning the auditory, somatosensory, and limbic systems—while gaining insight into advanced diagnostic techniques and up-to-date tinnitus management strategies.

Through interactive case studies, attendees will refine their ability to tailor care based on tinnitus subtype, distress level, and comorbid factors. Bring your questions and interesting cases so we can walk through them together. Emphasis will also be placed on building an effective care plan, including referrals when appropriate to optimize outcomes.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify tinnitus etiologies and subtypes
• Describe a range of diagnostic methods and testing protocols that can be used to guide treatment decisions
• Describe evidence-based tinnitus management strategies and when they are appropriate
• Identify situations that warrant referral for advanced tinnitus treatment
• Demonstrate how to communicate findings effectively during collaborative care

Private practice ownership in audiology offers independence and opportunity, but it also carries a host of legal and compliance responsibilities. From employment law and patient privacy to contracts, billing practices, and risk management, today’s practice owners must navigate a complex legal landscape while focusing on patient care and business growth. This session will explore the most pressing legal issues that practice owners face. Through practical examples, attendees will gain a clear understanding of their legal obligations, common pitfalls to avoid, and proactive strategies to protect their practices. Whether you are a new practice owner or a seasoned professional, this course will provide tools and insights to strengthen compliance, mitigate risk, and support long-term success.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify and interpret key legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements impacting audiology practices
• Recognize common legal pitfalls in contracts, employment arrangements, and business operations, and apply strategies to mitigate associated risks
• Develop proactive compliance practices and risk management policies to safeguard their practice against legal disputes, audits, and regulatory enforcement

The new CPT hearing aid service codes, that are slated to go into effect on January 1, 2026, completely alter the hearing aid billing landscape. In this presentation, we will provide a detailed discussion on each code, their probable and appropriate uses, modifiers, and documentation requirements.

In light of these changes and their potential impact on practice operations and revenues, will also discuss the pros and cons of health plan network participation, including the steps to evaluating a health plan contracts and allowable rates schedules. We will provide a step-by-step guide to evaluating a specific managed care agreement and making the business decision on network participation.

Attendees will be able to:

• List the new hearing aid service codes for 2026
• List the CPT codes that are scheduled to be deleted on January 1, 2026
• List the common pros and cons of health plan network participation
• Locate applicable health plan medical and coverage policies
• Describe the steps required to make health plan participation decisions

The Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act represents a pivotal opportunity to modernize Medicare coverage for audiology services, ensuring that millions of beneficiaries can access clinically necessary care provided by audiologists. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the legislation, including the scope of proposed changes, the anticipated impact on patients and providers, and the current status of the bill in Congress.

Participants will gain insight into the legislative process and learn about strategies being deployed to advance the Act on Capitol Hill. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to amplify their voices in the policy arena and contribute to shaping the future of audiology care access under Medicare.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the three tenets of the Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act (MAAIA)
• List the key benefits of the legislation and prioritize them according to the objectives of each legislative office
• Describe the pathway for the bill to make its way through Congress in the current session

Boost your practice’s efficiency and enhance patient experiences by enrolling your key staff members in the hands-on Technology Specialist Workshop, sponsored by Phonak at the AuDacity 2025 Conference! This practical training program is designed to upskill your team in the essential handling and troubleshooting of hearing technology and connectivity.

Attendees will be able to:

• Audiology, hearing, and hearing loss
• Hearing aid basics, programming, and troubleshooting
• Connectivity support and device troubleshooting

By equipping essential staff with these core competencies, hearing care professionals can spend more time focused on clinical care. The long-term impact? A more efficient practice, improved patient outcomes, and measurable time savings across your team. A trained Technology Specialist streamlines workflow and reduces the time spent on technical support tasks—where it counts the most.

This session will review the committee task, process, outcome, rational, and next steps for the recent report "Meaningful Outcome Measures in Adult Hearing Health Care" from The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine that culminated in a recommended core outcome set of measures for clinical and research studies related to non-surgical or implant hearing interventions.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify the task of the National Academies Committee
• Describe the process for identifying core outcome domains and specific recommended questionnaires
• Identify the current recommended core set of outcome measures for non-surgical hearing interventions

By equipping essential staff with these core competencies, hearing care professionals can spend more time focused on clinical care. The long-term impact? A more efficient practice, improved patient outcomes, and measurable time savings across your team. A trained Technology Specialist streamlines workflow and reduces the time spent on technical support tasks—where it counts the most.

The landscape of health care is shifting, fueled by patients who are no longer passive recipients of care but active participants in their health journeys. Rebel Health: A Field Guide to the Patient-Led Revolution in Medical Care explores this growing movement and its profound implications for patients, clinicians, and the health system at large.

Join us for this featured keynote presentation with Susannah Fox, weaving together research, stories, and lessons from her book. The session will then transition to a moderated panel featuring patients who have developed their own strategies, technologies, and communities to address gaps in care, with special attention to the lived experiences of people with hearing loss, auditory processing disorders, and tinnitus. Together, we will examine what clinicians can learn from these pioneers, and how audiology can embrace patient-led insights to improve outcomes and equity in hearing care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Define and Apply the Rebel Health Framework
• Describe the four archetypes of patient innovators (Seekers, Networkers, Solvers, and Champions)
• Identify patient-initiated advocacy, support networks, and tools that address unmet needs in hearing care and tinnitus management
• Develop strategies for partnering with patients as co-creators of knowledge, resources, and solutions, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive and resilient model of audiologic care

This dynamic session will highlight the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and recent initiatives undertaken by the Coalition for Health AI aligned with its mission to advance the responsible development, deployment and oversight of AI by fostering collaboration across the health sector.

The second half of the session will feature a panel of experts in audiology, data science, policy, and security, who will discuss applications for AI in audiologic diagnostics and rehabilitation, the benefits and limitations of such applications, and practical and ethical considerations.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the Coalition for Health AI’s responsible AI framework and its core principles
• Describe how predictive AI models can forecast patient risk trajectories
• Differentiate between generative and prescriptive AI approaches that enhance patient engagement and care efficiency
• Critically appraise the role of agentic AI systems (autonomous, goal-directed agents) in audiology workflows, including ethical, safety, and governance considerations
• Describe how CHAI’s initiatives and policy work are shaping responsible AI adoption
• List security and privacy risks associated with AI in healthcare and describe mitigation strategies

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

An Optometrist, a Dentist, and a Veterinarian Walk Into an Audiology Conference explores how audiology can learn from the experiences of fellow doctoring professions that have navigated many of the same challenges in private practice, managed care, and interdisciplinary integration. While each discipline serves unique patient populations, all share common ground in balancing clinical excellence with sustainable business practices, ensuring patient access to care, and positioning their profession within the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Through engaging case examples and cross-disciplinary insights, participants will discover how optometry, dentistry, and veterinary medicine have successfully tackled issues such as reimbursement models, patient financing, collaborative care pathways, and practice innovation. This session will highlight practical lessons audiologists can apply to strengthen their role in integrated care, enhance financial sustainability, and elevate the patient experience in both private practice and institutional settings.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe how optometry, dentistry, and veterinary medicine have integrated into broader health systems and identify strategies audiology can adapt to strengthen its role in interdisciplinary care and patient-centered outcomes
• Evaluate financing and reimbursement strategies used in dentistry, optometry, and veterinary care (e.g., third-party managed care, direct-pay models, patient financing programs) and apply these insights to develop more sustainable practice models in audiology that improve patient access while maintaining financial viability
• Compare innovations in private practice management across clinical doctoring professions, including approaches to patient loyalty, preventive care education, and the use of extenders to enhance competitiveness and long-term patient relationships.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

As state audiology associations continue to modernize and harmonize their scope-of-practice statutes, audiologists are increasingly empowered with the tools necessary to evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat complex auditory and vestibular conditions. A critical component of this evolving scope includes the judicious ordering of radiographic imaging. Successful implementation requires a collaborative framework between audiologists and radiologists to ensure accurate diagnosis and management of comprehensive patient care.

This multidisciplinary session—led by one radiologist and two audiologists—offers an in-depth exploration of the diagnostic role of imaging in audio-vestibular medicine. The session will combine didactic instruction with practical, case-based learning to deepen attendees' understanding of when and how to incorporate imaging into clinical decision-making.

The radiologist will provide targeted instruction on a range of imaging modalities, including Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA), ultrasound, and plain film X-rays. These modalities will be discussed in the context of their specific contributions to the differential diagnosis of auditory and/or vestibular disorders. Attendees will develop a clearer understanding of:

• The appropriate use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) versus MRA for evaluating inner ear and retrocochlear pathologies, including vestibular schwannomas and vascular anomalies
• The role of ultrasound in assessing vascular contributions to dizziness and other balance disorders, particularly in cases where vertebrobasilar insufficiency is suspected
• Targeted applications of plain film X-rays in otologic evaluation, including temporal bone abnormalities and ossicular chain disruptions
• Strategies to foster effective interdisciplinary communication between audiologists and radiologists to enhance diagnostic accuracy and streamline patient management

Through two case presentations presented by the audiologists, attendees will gain practical insight into how collaborative diagnostic imaging can directly inform treatment pathways and significantly improve effective and timely clinical outcomes. This session is ideal for audiologists seeking to refine their diagnostic acumen, engage more effectively with radiology colleagues, and responsibly integrate imaging into their expanding clinical toolkit.

Attendees will be able to:

• Differentiate between MRI and MRA and identify appropriate clinical indications for each in the diagnosis of auditory and retrocochlear pathologies
• Describe the role of ultrasound in evaluating vascular contributions to vestibular symptoms, including dizziness and imbalance
• Recognize the limited but targeted diagnostic applications of plain film X-rays in otologic assessment
• Apply case-based decision-making strategies to determine when imaging is warranted in audio-vestibular disorders
• Demonstrate effective interdisciplinary communication techniques to enhance collaboration between audiologists and radiologists, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the steps required to open an audiology private practice
• List the key pieces of equipment required to open an audiology private practice
• Describe the options available for clinic financing

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in business operations is transforming the healthcare landscape, and audiology practices stand to benefit significantly. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing marketing strategies across industries, and audiology practices can harness its power to enhance consumer outreach. This seminar will focus on how AI-driven tactics can improve patient engagement, personalize communication, and drive consumer interest in hearing healthcare services. By leveraging AI tools such as chatbots, predictive analytics, voice search optimization, automated content creation, and hyper-personalized advertising, audiologists can effectively attract and retain patients. Attendees will gain practical insights into implementing AI-powered marketing techniques to expand their reach, increase patient conversion rates, and optimize the overall patient experience.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the role of AI in modern consumer-focused marketing strategies for audiology practices
• Identify key AI tools and technologies that enhance direct patient outreach and engagement, such as chatbots, automated email campaigns, and personalized digital ads to attract and retain patients
• Develop an AI-powered marketing framework tailored to their practice’s consumer engagement goals

With the growing demands in audiology practices, empowering your team with additional skills is not just a smart investment—it’s a necessity. This course covers how to uncover the measurable benefits of having a well-trained practice extender—enhancing your clinic's efficiency, increasing revenue, and elevating the patient experience. This course will also introduce the Phonak Technology Specialist Training Program which equips staff to take on key support tasks, saving your clinic valuable hours each week.

Give your staff the tools they need to succeed and let your practice thrive.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the financial and operational impact of incorporating extenders in an audiology practice
• Analyze data and assess potential profitability with optimized workflows
• Describe the role of practice extenders in increasing revenue and creating efficiencies
• List opportunities to use practice extenders to improve patient care by minimizing clinic disruptions and keeping appointments running on time

This presentation will discuss the results of MarkeTrak25, and provide a comprehensive overview of the hearing aid industry, highlighting key trends and developments shaping its future. We will include new data on hearing aid adoption, OTC usage, cochlear implant overview and key data on hearing loss by age. We will also compare the latest data from MT25 to MT22 to provide insights into changes in market dynamics. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the intersection of industry trends and consumer empowerment.

This lecture will provide the following insights: 1) a look into the issues that examined in MarkeTrak 2025; 2) the delivery of hearing healthcare and how the issues discussed may influence the hearing industry; 3) A look into the evolving consumer experience.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the different forces impacting the delivery of hearing health care and hearing aids
• Describe the impact of OTC devices including acquisition and usage
• Integrate insights to improve the consumer experience

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics states that the employment of audiologists is projected to grow 11 percent between now and 2032. Are your practice and your team ready to grow alongside the industry? Attend this course to get the tools and knowledge needed to find, attract, interview, and retain top candidates in a competitive market.

Attendees will be able to:

• Build and execute a successful recruitment cycle for an audiology practice
• Attract and retain job candidates to align with business goals
• Engage with and support new employees through onboarding processes in an audiology practice

Many audiologists struggle to communicate effectively with physicians, feeling intimidated by medical marketing or unsure how to position themselves as essential healthcare partners. This session equips audiologists with the tools to effectively educate physicians, address common objections, and streamline the referral process. Attendees will learn how to frame hearing loss as a medical concern linked to dementia, fall risk, and cardiovascular health, making it a priority in primary care. Through concise messaging strategies, practical referral tools, and interactive exercises, audiologists will gain confidence in building physician relationships. This hybrid lecture and workshop format provides actionable steps to increase referrals and position private practice audiologists as the preferred choice over retail chains.

Attendees will be able to:

• Effectively communicate the importance of hearing healthcare and overcome intimidation in medical marketing
• Describe common concerns about referrals, patient costs, and time constraints, to position audiology as a key part of patient care
• Implement an Effective Referral Strategy

How we market, educate, and advocate for audiology is changing—are we keeping up? This session will examine the readability and accessibility of hearing healthcare materials that prompt new engineering strategies using AI-powered tools to optimize marketing, physician referrals, and advocacy messaging.. Attendees will learn how advanced AI prompts can generate effective, engaging, and audience-specific content, ensuring audiologists’ messages reach patients, providers, and policymakers. We will highlight real-world disparities and provide actionable AI-driven solutions to improve communication in private practice. AI is the future of audiology advocacy—this session will show you how to use it effectively.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the importance of healthcare literacy and readability in hearing healthcare materials and how AI-powered prompt engineering can optimize patient communication, physician referrals, and advocacy efforts
• Apply AI-driven marketing strategies to improve clinic visibility, patient engagement, and collaboration with physicians and policymakers, ensuring content is accessible to diverse literacy levels
• Develop prompt engineering skills to generate customized, strategic, and easy-to-understand content that enhances accessibility and empowers private practices to communicate effectively with patients and stakeholders

Crucial conversations are an inevitable part of any private practice, but they can often feel uncomfortable or lead to unproductive outcomes. Whether you’re addressing a co-worker, employee, or patient, conversations with strong emotions, high stakes and differing opinions can be challenging. In this session, you’ll learn proven techniques from Crucial Learning and cognitive behavioral methods to navigate these high-stakes moments with confidence. This course will help you create safety in conversations, allowing you to communicate openly with almost anyone about anything. You’ll learn to identify and resolve communication barriers, stay composed when emotions run high, and articulate your needs while respecting others’ viewpoints. By mastering these tools, you’ll strengthen relationships, achieve better results, and transform difficult interactions into opportunities for growth.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe how to create safety with their co-workers, employees or patients so they can talk with almost anyone about almost anything
• Identify problems contributing to poor results and struggling relationships
• Describe how to keep composure when feeling angry or defensive and identify what stories they may be telling themselves

As hearing aid technology advances, so must our clinical approach, especially when working with older adults who often present with both peripheral hearing loss and central auditory or cognitive decline. This session examines how standard hearing aid fittings may fall short for these patients, and in some cases, introduce distortion that worsens speech perception and increases listening effort.

Attendees will be able to:

• Apply cognitive-informed fitting strategies to reduce distortion and support real-world communication
• Integrate auditory processing and cognitive considerations into hearing aid selection, programming, and counseling
• Apply core acoustic principles to minimize distortion and optimize clarity in complex patients
• Describe how to critically evaluate and apply advanced AI-driven features in hearing aids to enhance selection and programming, particularly for patients with complex auditory and cognitive needs

This evidence-based, interdisciplinary session will review current evidence and discuss potential strategies for the prevention and monitoring of cisplatin-related ototoxicity. It will include information about pharmacologic interventions using sodium thiosulfate, as well as practical guidance on integrating audiologic surveillance into oncology care models.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity and its implications for long-term quality of life in pediatric and adult populations
• Summarize current evidence and clinical guidelines for the use of sodium thiosulfate (STS) as an otoprotective agent during cisplatin chemotherapy
• Describe challenges faced by oncologists in obtaining timely access to audiology services for their patients
• Identify best practices for developing audiology monitoring networks, including interprofessional communication protocols with oncology teams
• Demonstrate knowledge of portable audiologic screening technologies and how these tools can be deployed in oncology clinics, infusion centers, and inpatient settings for ongoing ototoxicity surveillance

Research suggests that many persons with hearing loss lack effective coping skills and tend to avoid social interactions, often deepening their isolation and loneliness. This course explores the relationship between hearing loss and social connectedness, including how properly fitted hearing aids and other audiological interventions might promote better social engagement through improved communication in multi-talker, noisy situations, reduced listening-related fatigue, restored music enjoyment, increased confidence and positive social impact.

Attendees will be able to:

• Define social disconnectedness and its impact on daily living
• Describe the relationship between age-related hearing loss and social connectedness
• Describe how the fitting of hearing aids could improve the various facets of social engagement

Cerumen management is a foundational skill in audiology practice, but mastery requires advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with evolving tools and techniques. This advanced workshop provides participants with intensive, practical training in the safe and effective removal of cerumen using the latest equipment, including suction systems, endoscopic visualization, irrigation devices, and precision instruments. Through live demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will refine their technique, enhance patient safety, and gain confidence in managing even the most complex cerumen impaction cases. This interactive session emphasizes real-world application, troubleshooting, and clinical decision-making to support best practices in ear care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing advanced cerumen management tools, including suction, irrigation, and endoscopic systems, to safely and effectively remove cerumen
• Apply evidence-based clinical decision-making to select the most appropriate cerumen management method for diverse patient presentations, including complex or challenging cases
• Identify and mitigate risks by recognizing potential complications during cerumen removal and employing strategies to maximize patient comfort and safety

Research links hearing loss with increased fall risk in adults, a growing concern as populations age. A novel mobile application, leveraging hearing aid motion sensor data, supports early identification and intervention, aligning with the CDC’s STEADI initiative. This presentation explores integrating this technology into audiology practices, focusing on its efficacy for autonomous falls risk screening, functional assessments of gait, strength, and balance, and guided balance exercises. We will present data on the application’s reliability, the impact of clinical instruction, and practical strategies to empower clinicians in monitoring and mitigating fall risks effectively.

Attendees will be able to:

• Summarize key findings from relevant research studies linking hearing loss to fall risk and their implications for audiology practice
• List the key components of the CDC’s STEADI initiative and their relevance to integrating falls risk technology in audiology practice
• Describe how falls risk management, using hearing aid motion sensor technology, improves patient outcomes in audiology care

Here we present speech recognition data in quiet and noise from thousands of patients with hearing loss. These data support using speech-in-noise testing as the default in audiologic assessment, reserving word-recognition in quiet for when performance is likely to be suoboptimal. We will also demonstrate between-session repeatability of speech tests as a function of hearing loss and baseline performance. Finally, we will show preliminary results from our AI-based tool for automatic speech recognition, which is capable of scoring audiologic tests in any language. Taken together, this research aims to modernize audiologic practice and better align testing with patient concerns.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Describe the relationship between speech recognition in quiet and noise
2. Articulate how repeatability of speech recognition tests change with increasing hearing loss
3. Describe new developments in artificial intelligence for scoring tests of speech recognition in quiet and noise

Lifestyle medicine offers an evidence-based framework for preventing and managing chronic conditions, with pillars such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, social connection, stress management, and avoidance of risky substances. Audiologists are uniquely positioned to champion hearing health as a vital part of social connectedness, and bridging the gap between lifestyle medicine and associated auditory and vestibular conditions.

This course introduces audiologists to the principles of lifestyle medicine and demonstrates how they can contribute to interdisciplinary health promotion and patient-centered outcomes. Participants will learn practical strategies to position their practice within the lifestyle medicine ecosystem through effective marketing approaches. The session will include a sample outreach plan for building collaborations with lifestyle medicine professionals, as well as templates and customizable resources to support ongoing marketing and advocacy efforts.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Describe the role of audiologists within the framework of lifestyle medicine
2. Describe how auditory and vestibular conditions align with the six pillars of lifestyle medicine
3. Develop strategies to integrate hearing care into lifestyle medicine conversations and practices
4. Apply practical marketing tools and resources to strengthen partnerships with lifestyle medicine professionals

Auracast is now reality, with facilities installing it alongside their present assistive listening system or by itself. There are already HCPs advocating for Auracast at venues their patients frequent, and you can too. Some with audio experience are even offering to install it themselves.

This session will begin with a brief review of what Auracast is, what devices are available, and what’s coming. That will be followed by examples of recent installations and their outcomes, then focus on how to approach and speak to local venues about the value of Auracast, review of available tools, and how equipment is obtained.

Attendees will be able to:

1. Give some examples of venues that have already installed Auracast
2. Explain why Auracast adds value to both venues and users in different environments
3. Share the cost, how to buy, and installation requirements when Auracast is added on top of an existing system, or by itself

Cerumen management is a foundational skill in audiology practice, but mastery requires advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with evolving tools and techniques. This advanced workshop provides participants with intensive, practical training in the safe and effective removal of cerumen using the latest equipment, including suction systems, endoscopic visualization, irrigation devices, and precision instruments. Through live demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will refine their technique, enhance patient safety, and gain confidence in managing even the most complex cerumen impaction cases. This interactive session emphasizes real-world application, troubleshooting, and clinical decision-making to support best practices in ear care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing advanced cerumen management tools, including suction, irrigation, and endoscopic systems, to safely and effectively remove cerumen
• Apply evidence-based clinical decision-making to select the most appropriate cerumen management method for diverse patient presentations, including complex or challenging cases
• Identify and mitigate risks by recognizing potential complications during cerumen removal and employing strategies to maximize patient comfort and safety

Aural rehabilitation has long been underutilized, despite strong evidence that it improves hearing aid adoption, reduces returns, and enhances patient outcomes. Lace AI Pro is redefining auditory training with an AI-powered, patient-led platform that makes aural rehabilitation practical and scalable for modern clinics. This session will explore how patient-led training can enhance hearing care, improve speech-in-noise comprehension, and strengthen cognitive function. Attendees will see a fun, live demonstration of key features and gain actionable strategies for integrating aural rehab into clinical workflows without adding to their workload. Attendees will also get a first look at new patient data showing that compliance with AI-powered aural rehab now surpasses that of physical therapy—the gold standard for rehabilitation in medicine.

Attendees will be able to:

• Explain the research-backed connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline
• Implement patient-led auditory rehabilitation strategies to support cognitive function and engagement
• Describe strategies to position hearing health as a key factor in brain health to improve patient compliance and long-term outcomes

Hearing aid functionality has evolved with changes in global communication technology, proving beneficial for individuals with hearing loss. However, for those working within secure locations, this can be problematic. The number of individuals wearing hearing aids is on the rise, and many of these patients work within Secure Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) environments. The two features allowing seamless communication between hearing aids and communication devices (Bluetooth and bidirectional microphones) are considered security risks within these facilities. However, collaboration between industry, audiology, and the intelligence community has resulted in a solution so these patients can receive the full benefits of amplification.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the challenges audiologists face when fitting hearing aids to patients who work with secure compartmented information facility (SCIF) environments
• List the features of hearing aids that are considered “high-risk” to governing bodies within SCIF environments
• Utilize strategies currently used by providers within the National Capital Region (NCR) for fitting hearing aids to individuals working within SCIF environments

This is an introductory course discussing the basic principles of vestibular and balance anatomy, physiology, and assessment. Clinical assessment of a patient's dizziness is often complex using both a variety of clinical objective tools and a number of subjective patient symptom scales. Making sense of it all can often be overwhelming. This presentation will attempt to clarify the various outcomes measures from common vestibular assessments and how they work together to describe a comprehensive vestibular and balance patient profile and, at times, even support an underlying diagnosis.

Attendees will be able to:

• Describe the anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system and how each clinical assessment tool relates to vestibular physiology and function
• Recite the basic principles of a comprehensive vestibular assessment
• Describe how each vestibular assessment measure contributes (and compliments one another) when developing a patient's vestibular and balance profile.

Modernizing state audiology practice acts is essential to ensure that licensure laws accurately reflect the education, training, and scope of practice of today’s audiologists. Outdated statutes can create barriers to patient care, limit professional autonomy, and misalign with advances in clinical practice. This course will provide audiologists with a framework for identifying deficiencies in their state’s practice act, strategies for building a strong advocacy coalition, and tools for effectively engaging with legislators and regulatory bodies. Drawing on the successful modernization of the Maryland State Audiology Practice Act, participants will gain practical insights and actionable skills to advance similar reforms in their own states, ultimately strengthening both the profession and access to quality hearing and balance care.

Attendees will be able to:

• Analyze their state’s current audiology practice act to identify outdated provisions and gaps between statutory language and the contemporary education, training, and scope of practice of audiologists
• Develop an advocacy strategy that includes coalition building with stakeholders, message development, and prioritization of legislative goals to support modernization efforts
• Apply effective communication techniques to educate policymakers, regulatory boards, and the public on the importance of updating audiology practice acts to improve patient access and protect public health.

Tinnitus continues to challenge clinicians with its diverse presentations and often complex etiology. As our understanding of tinnitus evolves, audiologists must be equipped with diagnostic precision, therapeutic agility, and patient-centered strategies. This three-hour workshop is designed for clinicians seeking to sharpen their skills and integrate the latest science into practice.

Participants will explore current theories on tinnitus generation and persistence—spanning the auditory, somatosensory, and limbic systems—while gaining insight into advanced diagnostic techniques and up-to-date tinnitus management strategies.

Through interactive case studies, attendees will refine their ability to tailor care based on tinnitus subtype, distress level, and comorbid factors. Bring your questions and interesting cases so we can walk through them together. Emphasis will also be placed on building an effective care plan, including referrals when appropriate to optimize outcomes.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify tinnitus etiologies and subtypes
• Describe a range of diagnostic methods and testing protocols that can be used to guide treatment decisions
• Describe evidence-based tinnitus management strategies and when they are appropriate
• Identify situations that warrant referral for advanced tinnitus treatment
• Demonstrate how to communicate findings effectively during collaborative care

Private practice ownership in audiology offers independence and opportunity, but it also carries a host of legal and compliance responsibilities. From employment law and patient privacy to contracts, billing practices, and risk management, today’s practice owners must navigate a complex legal landscape while focusing on patient care and business growth. This session will explore the most pressing legal issues that practice owners face. Through practical examples, attendees will gain a clear understanding of their legal obligations, common pitfalls to avoid, and proactive strategies to protect their practices. Whether you are a new practice owner or a seasoned professional, this course will provide tools and insights to strengthen compliance, mitigate risk, and support long-term success.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify and interpret key legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements impacting audiology practices
• Recognize common legal pitfalls in contracts, employment arrangements, and business operations, and apply strategies to mitigate associated risks
• Develop proactive compliance practices and risk management policies to safeguard their practice against legal disputes, audits, and regulatory enforcement

The new CPT hearing aid service codes, that are slated to go into effect on January 1, 2026, completely alter the hearing aid billing landscape. In this presentation, we will provide a detailed discussion on each code, their probable and appropriate uses, modifiers, and documentation requirements.

In light of these changes and their potential impact on practice operations and revenues, will also discuss the pros and cons of health plan network participation, including the steps to evaluating a health plan contracts and allowable rates schedules. We will provide a step-by-step guide to evaluating a specific managed care agreement and making the business decision on network participation.

Attendees will be able to:

• List the new hearing aid service codes for 2026
• List the CPT codes that are scheduled to be deleted on January 1, 2026
• List the common pros and cons of health plan network participation
• Locate applicable health plan medical and coverage policies
• Describe the steps required to make health plan participation decisions

Tinnitus continues to challenge clinicians with its diverse presentations and often complex etiology. As our understanding of tinnitus evolves, audiologists must be equipped with diagnostic precision, therapeutic agility, and patient-centered strategies. This three-hour workshop is designed for clinicians seeking to sharpen their skills and integrate the latest science into practice.

Participants will explore current theories on tinnitus generation and persistence—spanning the auditory, somatosensory, and limbic systems—while gaining insight into advanced diagnostic techniques and up-to-date tinnitus management strategies.

Through interactive case studies, attendees will refine their ability to tailor care based on tinnitus subtype, distress level, and comorbid factors. Bring your questions and interesting cases so we can walk through them together. Emphasis will also be placed on building an effective care plan, including referrals when appropriate to optimize outcomes.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify tinnitus etiologies and subtypes
• Describe a range of diagnostic methods and testing protocols that can be used to guide treatment decisions
• Describe evidence-based tinnitus management strategies and when they are appropriate
• Identify situations that warrant referral for advanced tinnitus treatment
• Demonstrate how to communicate findings effectively during collaborative care

Private practice ownership in audiology offers independence and opportunity, but it also carries a host of legal and compliance responsibilities. From employment law and patient privacy to contracts, billing practices, and risk management, today’s practice owners must navigate a complex legal landscape while focusing on patient care and business growth. This session will explore the most pressing legal issues that practice owners face. Through practical examples, attendees will gain a clear understanding of their legal obligations, common pitfalls to avoid, and proactive strategies to protect their practices. Whether you are a new practice owner or a seasoned professional, this course will provide tools and insights to strengthen compliance, mitigate risk, and support long-term success.

Attendees will be able to:

• Identify and interpret key legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements impacting audiology practices
• Recognize common legal pitfalls in contracts, employment arrangements, and business operations, and apply strategies to mitigate associated risks
• Develop proactive compliance practices and risk management policies to safeguard their practice against legal disputes, audits, and regulatory enforcement

The new CPT hearing aid service codes, that are slated to go into effect on January 1, 2026, completely alter the hearing aid billing landscape. In this presentation, we will provide a detailed discussion on each code, their probable and appropriate uses, modifiers, and documentation requirements.

In light of these changes and their potential impact on practice operations and revenues, will also discuss the pros and cons of health plan network participation, including the steps to evaluating a health plan contracts and allowable rates schedules. We will provide a step-by-step guide to evaluating a specific managed care agreement and making the business decision on network participation.

Attendees will be able to:

• List the new hearing aid service codes for 2026
• List the CPT codes that are scheduled to be deleted on January 1, 2026
• List the common pros and cons of health plan network participation
• Locate applicable health plan medical and coverage policies
• Describe the steps required to make health plan participation decisions