In the second of a two-part series, DR ANNE-MAREE DALEY discusses options for training and continuing education particularly upskilling reception staff to audiometrists.
On completing the Diploma of Audiology, students graduate as audiometrists and can pursue full membership with their professional body, The Australian College of Audiology (ACAud inc HAASA). The college offers a variety of courses, workshops and conferences to support continuing education for audiometrists and students. These programs cover the latest advancements in audiometry, hearing aid technology, patient care and tele-audiology, among other topics.
Several other courses are available that can enhance specific skill sets in audiometry.
The Australasian College of Audiometry (AuCA) offers all three courses listed below in flexible modes for the student, allowing students to continue working as reception staff while simultaneously studying audiometry.
The Diploma in Audiometry is also offered by TAFE NSW.
1. HTL47415 – Certificate IV in Audiometry
This certification represents the responsibilities of audiometrists who perform hearing assessments to detect hearing loss, refer clients for additional audiological or medical evaluation, and participate in care management and educational initiatives.
Individuals at this level are not authorised to prescribe or dispense hearing aids and are not qualified to practise independently. This course is designed for those who want to learn how to conduct hearing tests and make necessary referrals.
2. HTL57415 – Diploma of Audiometry
This advanced program covers more in-depth audiometric techniques, hearing aid prescription, and evaluation. This qualification pertains to audiometrists who perform hearing assessments to detect hearing impairment and take appropriate action based on the test results.
They may recommend further audiological or medical evaluations for clients and participate in care management and educational initiatives. At this level, audiometrists also provide and dispense hearing aids and/or other non-implantable devices to aid in hearing rehabilitation. Audiometrists may practise independently in medical, industrial, or retail settings.
3. Occupational Audiometry Course
The two-day Occupational Audiometry Course is in combination with an online learning module. It provides the student with the skills and knowledge required in accordance with the AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 Occupational noise management – Auditory assessment standards to conduct otoscopy, perform workplace hearing tests, and analyse and present test results accurately. This course best suits employees working in industries that require monitoring of employees’ hearing in an occupational noise setting.
On-the-job training and mentorship
Many audiology businesses provide in-house support and training including clinical training days and manufacturer learning support. They may also offer one-day workshops and conferences for continuing education, allowing students and experienced clinicians to update their knowledge bank and stay abreast of the ever-changing audiology industry.
The importance of supervision
Supervision is an essential component of the Diploma of Audiometry. Not only does supervision foster a strong working relationship among colleagues but it cultivates a supportive ethos within the company. Supervision for reception staff is convenient as they are already on site to observe or obtain hands-on experience.
Students benefit greatly from the invaluable guidance provided during supervision sessions and appreciate the opportunity to learn from the company’s most experienced clinicians. It is crucial for businesses to continue to support students with supervision when they are called upon.
Without supervisors, the profession of audiometrists and audiologists would cease to exist. Increasing the number of training programs and educational opportunities for aspiring audiometrists within businesses will help address the supply issue. This includes the option of providing students with the opportunity to undergo the audiometry program as an incentive to attract them to the field.
Providing hands-on training under the supervision of experienced audiometrists and audiologists is a practical approach that ensures audiometry students gain real-world experience and confidence in their new role. It is, at this time, that the business can ensure students are taught the ways of the business, ensuring they are aligned with the business’s specific needs, values and culture.
Upskilling reception staff and continuing education of audiometrists are essential for addressing skills shortages, enhancing career opportunities, maintaining high standards of patient care and operational efficiency, as well as supporting economic growth in Australia.
By investing in the development of their workforce and providing opportunities for professional growth and development, businesses and individuals can ensure they remain competitive, adaptable and at the forefront of the rapidly changing world of audiology.
Addressing this shortage is crucial for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss, now and in the future, ensuring they receive timely and effective care and delivering the best possible outcomes for their clients.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Audiologist of 19 years Dr Anne-maree Daley is an educator with the Australasian College of Audiometry. She has published articles on hearing health in local newspapers and professional journals including co-authoring research in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Audiology.
More reading
Upskilling reception staff to audiometrists: Part 1
Upskilling in audiometry: The Australasian College of Audiometry’s first year
ABS announces audiometry now has its own job classification
