Diagnostic Hearing Services
- Hearing evaluations in Adults
- Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex
- Otoacoustic Emmissions (OAE):
- Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR):
- Videonystagmography (VNG):
Hearing Aid: Dispensing & Service
- Hearing Aid Evaluation
- Real Ear Measurement
- Hearing Aid Maintenance Service
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
Tinnitus Evaluation
Noise Protectors and Custom Ear molds
Aural Rehabilitation Service:
Determining the existence or extent of a hearing loss can involve a number of different tests. At Providence our diagnostic testing includes adult hearing evaluations, impedance audiometry and acoustic reflex testing, otoacoustic emission testing (OAE), videonystagmography (VNG) and auditory brainstem response testing (ABR). These tests provide information on the exact nature of a specific hearing or dizziness disorder in order to initiate effective treatment and intervention, including sophisticated hearing aid fitting and testing. The referring physician will receive written reports with a detailed account of the findings and interpretation of test results.
Audiologic Evaluations: Adults
At Providence, we use pure tone and speech audiometry to determine the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as the extent to which speech is understood by the patient.
Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex
Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex testing allow us to detect disorders in the middle ear. By inserting a soft-tip plug in the ear to alter the pressure and emitting a loud sound we can gauge the reflexive response. This will reveal any information about potential problems of the middle ear.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE):
Our Otoacoustic Emissions test evaluates auditory function at the cochlea or inner-ear level. We use a soft probe placed in the ear canal to measure acoustic emissions from cells within the cochlea to determine any abnormalities.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR):
Auditory Brainstem Response measures the reaction of the acoustic nerve to sounds. Using electrodes to pick up the brainwave response to sounds, the ABR provides information on hearing thresholds in specific populations and can assess the functionality of the auditory neural pathway. ABR is recommended in cases of asymmetrical hearing loss as well as sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
Videonystagmography (VNG):
Videonystagmography assesses the balance function of the inner ear through a series of vestibular tests. Using a camera to record eye movement we can analyze the response to light and positional changes. During the final step of VNG warm and cool are used in the ear canals to determine any dizziness problems.
Providence offers the best available hearing aids in different types and sizes to fulfill individual needs. Our wide selection includes affordable, cosmetically appealing digital and programmable devices. Most hearing aids today benefit from the use of digital technology. Using a computer chip, these devices can process sound and be programmed to fit the patient’s type and degree of hearing loss.
Hearing Aid Evaluation
After a series of tests to determine the most beneficial hearing instrument, Providence will provide a 30-day trial period with the recommended device for each patient.
Real Ear Measurement
Our computerized image testing reveals the degree to which a patient’s hearing can be improved with a hearing aid. This test shows the overall loudness as well as the amount of amplification required for different frequencies.
Hearing Aid Maintenance Service
Providence provides maintenance services on all of its hearing aids at regular 6-month intervals to monitor the performance of each device. Services include checking the ear mold, cleaning the aid, any necessary tubing or parts replacement as well as a computer hearing analysis.
Providence offers special amplification devices to enhance communication over the telephone, in noisy environments and at great distances. By placing a microphone connected with an FM transmitter in an optimal location, the signal-to-noise ratio and received quality of speech is typically improved.
Providence has special tests to quantify the frequency and intensity of tinnitus (ringing in the ear) that a patient experiences. This information is useful in identifying the appropriate treatment program.
We provide custom ear molds for hearing aids, assistance devices, iPods and cell phones. Also available are protective earplugs for swimming and other noise protection devices.
In addition to offering hearing aids, we provide individual and group rehabilitation. For further development of communication skills we have educational hearing therapy.