Time to ponder

How often do we get the time to sit alone in a coffee shop, sip a latte and ponder all that is happening around us? For me, this is a daily pleasure.  After almost thirteen years working for one of Australia’s largest hearing healthcare providers, my time as an Adult Specialist Audiologist is coming to a close. Although disappointed I will not be working directly with my wonderful clients, many of whom have become friends, I look forward to the next chapter in my professional life as an audiologist.  The outlook is still a bit hazy at present, however, no doubt with a few more sessions sitting quietly, enjoying a latte in a cozy Brisbane café, pondering my ideas, my aspirations for my new business venture will come to fruition.

Today I viewed the Audiology Australia proposed merger webinar, listening to other audiologists presenting their differing views about the future of our profession and how best we can serve the public, our profession and ultimately how we can unite with other hearing healthcare professionals to ensure our clients are informed and educated so they can manage their hearing and/or balance problems optimally.  At present, the system is not so easy to navigate.  The media reports surrounding the commissions received from hearing aid sales and the general chat I hear among my social circle regarding the extravagant prices people are paying for hearing devices are not helpful and only promote distrust within the sector.

One aim of Savvy Audiology is to educate people, in particular, the elderly, who have been bombarded with so much information about their hearing, hearing aids and basic communication tactics, that the whole process seems to be causing more grief.  The typical pathway for most people is hearing test, hearing aid fitting and one or two follow up appointments.  I have had many clients over the years who completed this cycle quite seamlessly and managed their devices independently.  Their quality of life improved tenfold even and they have never looked back.  This is why audiology is such a rewarding career. We see every day in our clinics how we are able to transform lives with such positive quality of life outcomes. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed many cases where clients have become frustrated, depressed and given up.  Hearing impairment is a significant heatlh concern and can cause heartache and despair.  Savvy Audiology and Eardrum Education are passionate about helping those who need the extra assistance. We want to put hearing health on everyone’s agenda.