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Hulme C, Young A, Rogers K, Munro KJ. Cultural competence in NHS hearing aid clinics: a mixed-methods case study of services for Deaf British sign language users in the UK. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1440. [PMID: 38114981 PMCID: PMC10731837 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10339-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study identified and explored how National Health Service (NHS) hearing aid clinics address cultural competence concerning Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users. This was approached by (i) investigating how organisational processes meet the needs of Deaf signers from a hospital and hearing aid clinic perspective, (ii) analysing policies and guidelines to investigate if they equip practitioners to meet the needs of Deaf signers and (iii) exploring with practitioners who work in hearing aid clinics about their experiences of working with Deaf signers. METHODS This study utilised a mixed-methods multiple case study design, incorporating documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews. Interview analysis was conducted using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA). The research encompassed two hearing aid clinics in separate hospitals, producing 19 documents and eight interviews (four at each site) with audiologists ensuring a representative mix of professional experience levels. RESULTS Four themes emerged from the integrated analysis: (1) Understanding Deaf signers; (2) Communicating with Deaf signers; (3) Barriers and Facilitators and (4) Service improvement. A noticeable gap in understanding BSL as both a language and a cultural system was apparent across various policies, strategies, training programmes and staff expertise. Over-reliance on interpreters provided a false sense of accessibility and most participants felt tentative to engage directly with Deaf signers. Positive practices observed at Sites A and B encompassed accurate identification of patients as Deaf signers, improved interpreter availability, communication methods, enhanced training and the encouragement of professional self-awareness. CONCLUSION This is the first study that explores cultural competence of hearing aid clinics and its staff concerning Deaf signers in the UK. The results show both clinics require development to become an effective provider for culturally Deaf signers. Examples of how to design culturally competent practices have been provided to assist hearing aid clinics. The findings may be applicable to other underrepresented groups who are not typical users of conventional, acoustic hearing aids provided by the NHS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Hulme
- Social Research with Deaf People (SORD), School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Alys Young
- Social Research with Deaf People (SORD), School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Centre for Deaf Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesberg, South Africa
| | - Katherine Rogers
- Social Research with Deaf People (SORD), School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kevin J Munro
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD), School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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M R NN, Seethapathy J. Tele-Audiology in India: Current and Future Trends in Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Among Audiologists. J Audiol Otol 2022; 26:130-141. [PMID: 35538867 PMCID: PMC9271733 DOI: 10.7874/jao.2021.00584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread use of telepractice in hearing health care services. In this study, we investigated the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of tele-audiology among Indian audiologists. The current study is based on tele-practice guidelines recommended by the Indian Speech and Hearing Association for tele-audiology services in India. Subjects and Methods An internet-based KAP questionnaire survey was performed among 108 audiologists. The questionnaire included 33 items categorized under the following domains: demographic information and KAP of tele-audiology. Of the 108 audiologists included in the study, 38 admitted to the practice of tele-audiology previously and during the COVID-19 pandemic (tele-practitioners), and 70 respondents had no experience of tele-audiology (non-telepractitioners). Results Overall higher scores were observed with regard to the knowledge domain, and a mixed attitude regarding tele-practice was observed among audiologists. Most respondents acknowledged the advantages of tele-audiology in clinical practice. However, audiologists were hesitant to utilize this technology owing to the challenges associated with tele-practice. Conclusions Despite adequate awareness and a positive attitude, a gap is observed between available knowledge and its actual application/utilization in tele-audiology. Tele-audiology practice was limited to counseling, hearing impairment treatment, and troubleshooting tips for hearing aids. Evidence-based practices to perform diagnostic test battery in tele-mode, hands-on training to run diagnostic test battery/rehabilitation using a tele-mode approach, and greater understanding of the technical requirements for tele-practice may result in a positive perception and encourage tele-audiology practice among audiologists. Specialized training and regular continuing education programmes are important to promote tele-audiology services in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazreen Nihara M R
- Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Porur, Chennai, India
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Aggarwal K, Gunjawate DR, Yerraguntla K, Ravi R. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on audiology practice: A scoping review. Clin Epidemiol Glob Health 2022; 13:100939. [PMID: 35005299 DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2021.100939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has significantly impacted the professional practice of health care professionals including audiological practice. Audiologists had to adopt to changes and modify their practice to deal with the pandemic. Reasonable published work has been seen since the onset of the pandemic, depicting impact on the audiology practice across the globe in different practice settings and contexts. The present scoping review was carried out to explore the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on audiology practice and the challenges faced. Material & methods A literature search was carried out to identify the studies exploring the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on audiology practice. Three electronic databases namely Scopus, PubMed/Medline, and Cochrane Library were searched using keywords. After title and abstract screening, suitable studies were identified. Results Of the total 172, nine studies focusing on impact of COVID-19 pandemic on audiology practice COVID-19, published between January 2020 to June 2021 were included. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent restrictions, caused changes in routine clinical practices in audiology. These changes were with respect to stringent infection control measures, mode of service delivery, changes in routines with reduced services or prioritizing services. Challenges included issues with remote services, experience, and support. Conclusion The present review reveals the changes in audiology practice during COVID –19 and challenges encountered by audiologists. These findings would help in better planning of audiology practice in the post pandemic world.
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Abstract
Introduction: Hospitals are categorized under silent zone, but noise pollution in this setup is inevitable. The noise in hospitals may have adverse effects on the patients, caregivers and professionals working in hospitals. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine awareness of public regarding noise pollution in hospitals, its health effects and mitigation measures. Method: The present study was an internet-based questionnaire survey. The questionnaire consisted of a common Section-I for all participants and an additional Section-II for participants of the study who were Audiologists. Descriptive statistical analysis was done on the acquired data. Results: 174 completed questionnaires were received and analysed, out of which 108 were general public and 66 were Audiologists. The data analysis revealed that the public is aware of the presence of noise in hospitals, some of its overt health effects and measures that can be taken to control the noise pollution in hospitals. Only 22.7% Audiologists who participated in the study were aware of the more technical aspects like permissible noise level in hospitals and their response was similar to that of the general public. Conclusion: Though the public is aware of some of the basic facts related to noise in hospitals, there is a need to create public awareness and to train Audiologists regarding hearing conservation program in hospital setups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Monisha U
- Nitte Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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Glista D, O'Hagan R, Moodie S, Scollie S. An examination of clinical uptake factors for remote hearing aid support: a concept mapping study with audiologists. Int J Audiol 2020; 60:S13-S22. [PMID: 32749182 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1795281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a conceptual framework around the factors that influence audiologists in the clinical uptake of remote follow-up hearing aid support services. DESIGN A purposive sample of 42 audiologists, stratified according to client-focus of either paediatric or adult, were recruited from professional associations in Ontario, Canada, as members of the six-step, participatory-based concept mapping process. Analyses included multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. RESULTS Six main themes emerged from this research according to overall level of importance: (1) technology and infrastructure; (2) audiologist-centred considerations; (3) hearing healthcare regulations; (4) client-centred considerations; (5) clinical implementation considerations; and (6) financial considerations. Subthemes were identified at the group-level and by subgroup. These highlight the importance of TECH factors (accessible Technology, Easy to use, robust Connection, and Help available), as well as the multi-faceted nature of the perceived attitudes/aptitudes across stakeholders. CONCLUSION Findings can be utilised in tailored planning and development efforts to support future research, knowledge dissemination, best-practice protocol/guideline development, and related training to assist in the clinical uptake of remote follow-up hearing aid support services, across variable practice contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Glista
- The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,The National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Robin O'Hagan
- The National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Sheila Moodie
- The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,The National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Susan Scollie
- The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,The National Centre for Audiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Rapport F, Hughes SE, Boisvert I, McMahon CM, Braithwaite J, Faris M, Bierbaum M. Adults' cochlear implant journeys through care: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:457. [PMID: 32448127 PMCID: PMC7247254 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05334-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cochlear implants (CIs) can provide a sound sensation for those with severe sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), benefitting speech understanding and quality of life. Nevertheless, rates of implantation remain low, and limited research investigates journeys from traditional hearing aids to implantable devices. Method Fifty-five adults (≥ 50 years), hearing aid users and/or CI users, General Practitioners, and Australian and United Kingdom audiologists took part in a multi-methods study. Focus groups, interviews, and surveys were thematically analysed. Results One hundred forty-three data-capture events disclosed 2 themes: 1) “The burden of hearing loss and the impact of Cochlear Implants”, and 2) “Professional Support and Practice, and HCPs Roles and Responsibilities”. Conclusions Care experience can include convoluted, complex journeys towards cochlear implantation. The significant impact of this, as hearing loss progresses, motivates people to consider implants, but they and healthcare professionals need clear supported with defined referral pathways, and less system complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Rapport
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sarah E Hughes
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.,South Wales Cochlear Implant Programme, Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Isabelle Boisvert
- H:EAR [Hearing: Education, Application, Research], Australian Hearing Hub, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia.,The HEARing Cooperative Research Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Catherine M McMahon
- H:EAR [Hearing: Education, Application, Research], Australian Hearing Hub, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia.,The HEARing Cooperative Research Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Braithwaite
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Mona Faris
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Mia Bierbaum
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
Background: There is little data available addressing how clinical audiologists handle cochlear implant (CI) programming between device manufacturers and make decisions on related services, particularly in the United States. Objectives: This study sought to understand the techniques and settings professionals use with their patients, how they approach bimodal fitting, which tests they use to evaluate patient and device performance, and their overall preferences of (re)habilitative options. Methods: A questionnaire was developed and distributed to CI audiologists throughout the United States electronically. Results: All respondents reported either always or almost always using Cochlear's default signal processing strategy in contrast to the 64% reported for Med-El and 40% for Advanced Bionics. A trend of less use of electrically evoked stapedial reflex threshold (eSRT) than electrically evoked compound action potentials (eCAP) for objective measures was revealed. Higher likelihood of performing speech recognition tests in quiet than in noise was revealed. Preferences for bimodal fitting trend toward using a partner company's hearing aid, although preferences were comparable in adopting four types of hearing aid formulas surveyed in the questionnaire. Conclusions: These data confirm high variability among audiologists' CI programming practices, and documenting these differences is an important step to understanding how to best treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Browning
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA
| | - Yingjiu Nie
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA
| | - Ayasakanta Rout
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA
| | - Meredith Heiner
- Department of Audiology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
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Dawood F, Khan NB, Bagwandin V. Management of adult patients with tinnitus: Preparedness, perspectives and practices of audiologists. S Afr J Commun Disord 2019; 66:e1-e10. [PMID: 31793315 PMCID: PMC6890539 DOI: 10.4102/sajcd.v66i1.621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Audiologists, globally, are generally challenged when assessing and creating intervention plans to help patients suffering from tinnitus. Tinnitus is very common among individuals and may significantly affect one’s quality of life, especially if not addressed by health care professionals. In South Africa, there seems to be limited published studies regarding the current practices of tinnitus management by audiologists. This is mainly because of limited training and a lack of guidelines and strategies for the management of tinnitus. In particular, some participants reported being unfamiliar on how to approach the identification of tinnitus and difficulty is also encountered when counselling tinnitus patients. Aim The aim of this study was to describe the preparedness, perspectives and practices of audiologists who manage adult patients with tinnitus. Method Two hundred and forty-three registered Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) participants were involved in the study by responding to an electronic questionnaire survey. Data were collected online from Survey Monkey and were exported to Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) (Version 23) for statistical analysis. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Closed-ended questions were analysed within a quantitative framework and thematic analysis for open-ended questions that were descriptively quantified. Results The results of the study are presented according to the objectives. Approximately 44% of participants (44.3%) disagreed that the undergraduate university training had sufficiently prepared them to manage adult patients with tinnitus. Very few (12.3%) had the opportunity to attend specialist training on how to assess patients with tinnitus. Similarly, only 11.6% received any specialist training with regard to tinnitus intervention. With regard to its overall management, 49.4% felt adequately informed in the assessment of patients with tinnitus, while a further 39.2% rated their experience as being limited with regard to tinnitus intervention. There is no statistical significance relationship between participants’ years of experience and tinnitus intervention (p = 0.075). Most participants did not follow any standard guidelines for its management. Some participants (26.8%) reported that further education and training are required in the overall management of patients with tinnitus, while a further 17.7% required training in all areas of tinnitus. Conclusion The feedback relating to the study suggests that overall management of tinnitus seems to be a challenge among South African audiologists, irrespective of their years of experience. Audiologists in the study perceived that tinnitus services are limited mainly because of a lack of or limited knowledge, training and guidelines, these being affected by contextual restraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firdaus Dawood
- Discipline of Audiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
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Moroe N, Khoza-Shangase K. Management of occupational noise induced hearing loss in the mining sector in South Africa: Where are the audiologists? J Occup Health 2018; 60:376-382. [PMID: 29984739 PMCID: PMC6176025 DOI: 10.1539/joh.2018-0020-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to explore the scope of practice for occupational audiologists in the mining industry and the audiologists' involvement in hearing conservation programmes in South African mines. Additionally, this study investigated the mining industry's role in the audiologists' involvement, and assessed the audiologists' levels of preparedness for working in occupational audiology. METHODS In-depth, qualitative telephone and face-to face interviews were conducted with seven occupational audiologists involved in the management of occupational, noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) in the South African mining sector. Snowball sampling was utilized to recruit possible participants for this study. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS The following themes were identified: scope-context misalignment, juniorization of the experts, audiologists are important... but for what?, and limited training in occupational audiology. CONCLUSIONS Our evidence highlights important gaps in HCPs in South Africa. The fact that the audiologists responsible for the management of ONIHL are only minimally and peripherally involved may play a significant role in the lack of progress reported in the management of ONIHL in the South African mining sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nomfundo Moroe
- Speech Pathology and Audiology Department, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand
| | - Katijah Khoza-Shangase
- Speech Pathology and Audiology Department, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand
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Ravi R, Gunjawate DR, Yerraguntla K, Driscoll C. Knowledge and Perceptions of Teleaudiology Among Audiologists: A Systematic Review. J Audiol Otol 2018; 22:120-127. [PMID: 29719949 PMCID: PMC6103494 DOI: 10.7874/jao.2017.00353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives The knowledge and perception of teleaudiology among audiologists will determine the acceptance and success of teleaudiology practice. This systematic review was conducted to review the published literature on knowledge and perceptions of teleaudiology application among audiologists. Materials and METHODS Five studies exploring knowledge and perceptions of teleaudiology application among audiologists published in the English language up to May 2017 were included. RESULTS Positive attitudes was observed across the studies regarding acceptance towards application of teleaudiology. The most common sources of knowledge were on the job, graduate studies, and continuing education programs. The major barriers to the uptake of application of teleaudiology were in terms of limitations in infrastructure, reimbursement, and licensure. Conclusions The study sheds light on the existing knowledge and perceptions of teleaudiology applications among audiologists. This will help in improving the existing teleaudiology services as well as overcome the challenges faced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Ravi
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Dhanshree R Gunjawate
- Department of Audiology and SLP, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Krishna Yerraguntla
- Department of Speech and Hearing, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Carlie Driscoll
- University of Queensland, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Hearing Research Unit for Children, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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