Performing a Valid Objective Hearing Assessment and Audiology Referral in Skilled Nursing Facilities
Recorded On: 06/15/2022
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Hearing services in skilled nursing facilities (SNF) are mandated by the federal law OBRA 1987 and many states have laws to ensure hearing assessments. New residents enter the facility after hospitalization for chronic disease, infections, trauma and treatment with ototoxic medications. Since hearing loss is invisible, the only means of knowing if there is an underlying hearing issue is a valid screening or an audiological evaluation. The impact of identifying, treating and correcting hearing improves residents’ quality of life and quality of care. In addition, knowing the status of hearing and auditory processing of speech allows for improved quality indicators and overall treatment for the facility residents.
This webinar will discuss how to build a successful audiology program in the nursing facility. Speakers will address challenges and limitations to providing quality audiology in this setting and provide strategies to reduce barriers.
Kathy Dowd, AuD
Executive Director
The Audiology Project
Dr. Kathy Dowd, AuD received her undergraduate degree in French Education from Spalding University, Masters in Audiology from University of Louisville and Clinical Doctorate from Salus University. Her background in Audiology over the past 42 years is in educational audiology at local and state levels, private practice, ENT and proprietary clinics. For the past ten years, Dr. Dowd has worked to raise the awareness of chronic disease and ototoxic medications causing hearing loss by instructing diabetes educators, optometrists and audiologists nationally about this silent unmet medical need. In 2021 her advocacy efforts moved the Centers for Disease Control to recommend a baseline hearing test at the time of diagnosis and annually thereafter. Dr. Dowd is heading the advocacy and collaboration with Audiology organizations on clinical guidelines for patient care in the area of chronic and infectious diseases.
This activity is not for credit.
