Hearing aid selection, fitting, verification, and validation: audiology practice in India and Australia

Abstract Background Verification and validation of hearing aids are linked to several elements of the evidence-based practice (EBP) approach for selecting and fitting hearing aids. Various verification and validation procedures are being followed by practicing audiologists across different countries. The present study explored the similarities and differences in audiology practices regarding hearing aid fitting, verification, and validation procedures in India and Australia. Methods An online survey with 33 required questions, categorized into three domains, examined the differences in audiology practices between India and Australia. The first domain, containing five questions, gathered demographic information about the audiologists. The second domain, with eighteen questions, concentrated on hearing aid selection and fitting procedures. The final domain included ten questions related to hearing aid verification and validation. The survey had participants comprising 33 audiologists from Australia and 32 from India. Only audiologists who work with adults and the elderly were included in this study. Results In Australia, 72.73% of audiologists provide a trial with two different hearing aids for each patient, compared to 56.25% in India. Real ear measurements are the most common verification method (96.97%) in Australia, while informal oral questions are used for verification in India. Validation in Australia utilizes rating scales, questionnaires, and speech-in-noise tests, whereas informal questions are used 46.48% of the time as validation measures in India. Conclusion The study suggests that India needs practice guidelines to support evidence-based practice (EBP) in rehabilitating individuals with hearing loss.