heyrnarsérfræðingum

Heyrnarsérfræðingur, or audiologist, is a health professional who specializes in hearing and balance disorders. They assess, diagnose, and manage hearing loss and vestibular (balance) problems, and they support communication and quality of life across the lifespan.

Typical activities include a range of diagnostic tests such as behavioral and objective hearing assessments, tympanometry, otoacoustic emissions, and vestibular evaluations. They fit and program hearing aids and other amplification devices, and they may evaluate candidacy for cochlear implants and provide post-implant management in collaboration with ENT specialists. Audiologists also offer rehabilitation, counseling, and strategies to help individuals use their remaining hearing effectively.

Education and regulation: Most audiologists hold a master’s or doctoral degree in audiology and complete supervised clinical training. Licensure or certification requirements vary by country, and many professionals participate in ongoing continuing education to maintain expertise and stay updated on technology and best practices.

Work settings and collaboration: Audiologists work in public and private clinics, hospitals, schools, and universities. They typically collaborate with otolaryngologists (ENT doctors), speech-language pathologists, educators, and other healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat conditions such as sensorineural or conductive hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders.

Impact and scope: The field emphasizes early detection and intervention, device fitting and adjustment, and patient-centered rehabilitation. By improving access to effective hearing and balance care, audiologists contribute to better communication outcomes, safety, and quality of life for individuals and families.