Paid Externship in AR

4th YEAR EXTERNSHIP 2027-2028

Overview

The Audiology Extern will observe and participate in the administering of diagnostic audiological tests that allow for the differentiation between types of hearing disorders.  The Audiology Extern will provide hearing aid testing, selection and fitting to all populations (per university program guidelines).   The Audiology Extern will sit in with Audiologists as they counsel patients regarding test results and review options that best meet their hearing care needs.  Performs hearing aid testing, selection, and fitting to all populations.  Reviews pricing and sale of hearing aids as part of the patient education process.

Responsibilities

Administers Diagnostic Tests

• Provides comprehensive audiologic testing including pure tones (AC and BC pure tones) and speech (SRT, WRS, and SIN).

• Provides additional diagnostic testing as warranted, including tympanometry, acoustic reflexes, and decay.
• Coordinates and interprets test results.
• Consults with and makes recommendations on hearing disorders to physicians.
• Coordinates care with physicians and other providers.
• Completes chart notes for each patient seen and submit reports to Primary Care Physicians as requested.

Manages Hearing Rehabilitation

• Counsels patient regarding test results.
• Makes recommendations regarding hearing care options.
• Reviews products available to improve hearing impairment.
• Customizes appropriate hearing care treatment through products and warranties as deemed necessary to meet the needs of the patient.
• Provides hearing aid dispensing, including selection, fitting, ear-mold acoustics, ongoing management with follow-up, and education.
• Demonstrates and sells Assistive Listening Devices (ALD’s), batteries, and other special products.
• Performs hearing aid repairs.
• Performs hearing aid checks and cleaning.

Miscellaneous Duties

• Aware of marketing activities.
• Responsible for invoicing of products and services provided.
• Maintains positive relationships with various vendors.
• Assists customers with exchanges or returns as needed.
• Involved in clinical quality outcomes, including efficiency and productivity.
• Provides excellent customer service and maintains good public relations.
• Shares administrative duties with colleagues as needed.

Qualifications

• Current Au.D student at an accredited college or university.
• Requires the ability to deal with numerous interruptions.
• Must deal with customers in a caring and respectful manner.
• Must be able to organize time and prioritize numerous duties within strict deadlines.