How should I go about obtaining my Hearing Aid Dispenser certification in Utah?
I'm 25 years old and have my Highschool Diploma but no college. I would really like to become a Hearing Aid Dispenser but I'm having a hard time finding where I can get the education. I would really like some insight on where to start and what the career path looks like going forward. I'm not sure college is for me but are there specialized schools or programs that I could attend instead?
2 answers
Doc’s Answer
HEARING AID DISPENSER
A professional license is typically required, but qualifications vary by state. Once you complete an apprenticeship or internship with a certified hearing aid dispenser, you can take a test to gain your license. Some states may require at least two years of college while others only ask for a GED certificate or high school diploma. A hearing aid dispenser may administer an ear exam or perform audiometric testing to measure a person’s hearing loss before fitting a customer for hearing aids.
The duties of a hearing aid dispenser involve assisting people with hearing loss. To ensure the right product, they may administer an ear exam or perform audiometric testing to measure a person’s hearing loss. A hearing aid dispenser usually works for a business that focuses on fitting the product for a specific patient’s ear. Other responsibilities include helping customers learn more about their options in order to increase sales and ensure the product they choose will significantly benefit their reduced hearing.
Karin’s Answer
Good career choice since we all get older and hard of hearing!
To be a hearing aid disperser you need to pass the licensing test. You find information on the requirements here:
https://www.dopl.utah.gov/hearing-instrument/exam-information/
There are a couple of outfits that offer online prep courses. I left a few links below. You'll also need some hands-on experience through an internship.
I would recommend that you talk to a few people in the profession what they would recommend before you throw money at it. Maybe one of them would take you on for practical training.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps: