AuDacity 2025 - Agenda

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

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