Overview of Audiological Medicine
Audiological medicine is the medical specialty concerned with the investigation, diagnosis and management of adults and children with disorders of balance, hearing, tinnitus, and auditory communication - including speech and language disorders in children. Approximately 20% of the UK population have significant hearing loss as judged by the MRC National Study of Hearing and one - third of the population experience symptoms of dizziness/imbalance by the age of 60. Despite the prevalence of hearing and balance disorders in the population, the number of consultants in the specialty remains less than the recommended 3/500-600,000.
All patients with audiovestibular needs are right to expect equal and timely access to uniform, good quality care delivered by trained professionals, to prevent or limit impairment disability or handicap. Services should be patient - centred with best practice unrestricted by resources. Children should be given enough time in a child-friendly environment. Patients, their families and carers expect clear, unbiased, up-to-date information in an accessible form. There should be adequate time and expertise for the counselling that is required in chronic disorders and disability. First language interpretation, including sign language, should be available whenever needed, and there should be prompt access to other paramedical and medical disciplines when needed for effective care.
