Audiology Extern (Slidell, LA)

About the Role

The Audiology Extern will complete the requisite university and ASHA requirements for the clinical practice component of the Au.D. Degree. The Extern will treat and fit patients following the All American Hearing (AAH) Patient Journey, gaining practical experience in hearing aid fittings, service/repairs, and sales. This includes product knowledge, audiologic assessment, fittings and sales of hearing products and accessories, patient counseling, and aural rehabilitation. Responsibilities may also include assessment of tinnitus and balance disorders, as well as providing services to pediatric patients.

Externs will be trained to provide services remotely through AAH's TeleHear program. Temporary license fees, necessary study materials, and travel arrangements will be covered by AAH. The training program involves working with an assigned Preceptor and assessing/treating patients independently as allowed by state law and academic guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the Patient Journey Experience is the top priority, ensuring patient comfort and attentiveness to their requests and concerns.
• Conduct patient diagnostics, including:
  • Pure tone and speech audiometry
  • Immitance testing
  • Tinnitus evaluations
  • Otoacoustic emissions testing
  • Vestibular evaluations
• Explain the hearing testing process step-by-step.
• Administer hearing test procedures in accordance with AAH clinical protocol and applicable laws.
• Analyze and interpret test results, review findings, and recommend solutions for hearing loss.
• Refer patients to physicians or other professionals as needed.
• Review and discuss diagnostic findings and recommendations with Preceptor; have audiograms and test forms reviewed and cosigned.
• Conduct fitting of hearing aids and accessories, consulting with Preceptor or other staff on difficult fittings.
• Perform trial fittings with premium technology hearing instruments during initial evaluations.
• Recommend appropriate styles and levels of technology for hearing instruments and accessories.
• Take ear impressions as needed.
• Quote prices from the established price list, applying any advertised discounts.
• Counsel patients on payment and finance options, explain warranties, and obtain signatures on Purchase Agreements.
• Collect a minimum 50% deposit at the time of sale.
• Review and discuss all hearing aid fitting recommendations with Preceptor; have Purchase Agreements and relevant forms cosigned.
• At fitting, verify the fit and performance of aids, ensuring no feedback.
• Demonstrate and counsel on the use and care of hearing instruments.
• Explain follow-up and clean & check processes; have patients sign for delivery of aids.
• Set up a follow-up appointment for one week post-fitting.
• Write and enter SOAP notes in Hearing Fusion at the conclusion of every patient visit; have Preceptor review and cosign.
• Follow up with the Patient Services Coordinator (PSC) for other Hearing Fusion entries.
• Call patients within 48 hours to check on progress and comfort; schedule appointments if difficulties arise.
• Assist with new and retention marketing efforts for the office, in coordination with National Marketing staff and local staff.
• Maintain patient records according to AAH policy and applicable law, in cooperation with the Preceptor and PSC.
• Maintain clinical equipment, tools, and supplies.
• Maintain office appearance in conjunction with the Patient Services Coordinator.
• Assist with compliance for OSHA Infection Control, HIPAA, and state/local business licensing regulations.
• Maintain insurance credentialing.
• Uphold the highest ethical standards as outlined in the AAH employee handbook.
• Support corporate and department guidelines, health and safety objectives, and adapt to change productively.

Performance Measures

• Attendance at required meetings (travel may be required).
• Creation of a calendar for each location.
• Assessment of clinical skills in accordance with university, ASHA, and AAH internal requirements.
• Providing timely data for insurance billing.
• Collaborating with local, regional, and national staff to ensure a successful patient journey experience.

Requirements

• Current enrollment and good standing in an accredited Audiology graduate program.
• Eligibility for Externship year per university requirements.
• Obtain Audiology and Dispensing Temporary Licensure in the state of employment, if required by applicable state law.
• Minimum one year of clinical practice experience.
• Ability to learn and use software systems including Hearing Fusion, NOAH, and Inspire OS.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Working Conditions

• Normal office conditions.
• Some travel may be required.
• Operation of hearing aid testing equipment, hearing instruments and accessories, and computers.