National certification and state licensure boards' requirements, personal needs for professional growth, and an expanding scope of practice all necessitate mandatory continuing education (CE) for audiologists. This Internet study surveyed audiologists about their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices and preferences for CE. An e-mail invitation to complete an on-line survey was sent to 7,803 nonstudent members of the American Academy of Audiology. A total of 1237 audiologists completed the questionnaire via Survey Monkey (16% response rate). Most audiologists had adequate knowledge about and expressed positive attitudes toward CE; however, nearly half could benefit from a demystification of the CE process. For example, about half of the respondents said the CE process (e.g., rationale, CE Registry, requirements for certification/licensure) was confusing to them. Cost, location, and lack of employer support were the most frequent reasons given for not attending AudiologyNOW! Despite technological advances in CE delivery, most audiologists prefer face-to-face CE events, but would be willing to spend $50.00 for a relevant 2-hour virtual seminar. Audiologists could benefit from demystification of the CE process, employer support, and an increase in the number and variety of offerings.Learning Outcomes: As a result of this activity, the participant will be able to (1) discuss audiologists' knowledge about CE, attitudes toward, and practices and preferences for CE; and (2) list improvements that may assist audiologists in CE.
The evidence identified in this review is limited regarding the nonacoustic benefits of BAHAs compared with unaided conditions or other types of amplification. Professionals should use caution when counseling patients about the quality of life (QOL) benefits of these devices. Routine use of QOL outcome measures and standardized methods for reporting findings are critical in demonstrating the nonacoustic benefits of BAHAs.
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