Satisfaction with hearing assessment feedback using the My Hearing Explained tool: client and audiologist perceptions

Abstract

Objective: To determine the perceived satisfaction and understanding of hearing assessment feedback, using the Ida My Hearing Explained Tool (IMHET), compared to the standard audiogram reported by adult clients and audiologists. Design:This study is a mixed-method design comparing clients and audiologists' perceptions through a single-blinded, randomised control trial and focus group discussions. After using either the audiogram or IMHET for feedback, clients and audiologists completed the adapted Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ).Study Sample: During client's initial audiological consultations, audiologists provided hearing assessment feedback (Total = 51) using the IMHET or audiogram. Twenty-seven clients and seven audiologists participated in focus groups, and/or open-ended questions.Results: Satisfaction was not significantly different (p > 0.05) between the IMHET (76.18; SD: 2.66) or audiogram (75.63; SD: 4.73) for the overall PSQ scores reported by clients and audiologists. Two shared main themes, understanding and satisfaction, were identified for both tools from the focus groups and open-ended questions. A third main theme, recommendations, was identified only for the IMHET. Conclusions:The IMHET is a valuable resource for clients during hearing assessment feedback. Audiologists recommend that the audiogram be used as a supplement when using the IMHET to provide feedback.