While both are hearing health care professionals, an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser differ in training, credentialing and scope of practice.
Audiologists are non-physician professionals who identify and assess disorders of the hearing and balance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fit and dispense amplification systems such as hearing aids and related devices; program cochlear implants; and provide instruction, rehabilitation and counseling services to enhance human communication.
Audiologists must hold a university graduate (doctorate or master) degree in order to practice. They are educated in all functions of the ear and hearing. In the state of California, they must also hold a supplemental certification in order to dispense hearing aids, with the designation, Dispensing Audiologist. Many of the audiologists that dispense hearing aids work with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor's office. State laws mandate and define the extensive scope of practice of an audiologist. Audiologic evaluations performed by an audiologist are considered medically diagnostic and can be used by a physician or surgeon to diagnose and treat a patient’s illness, injury or need for surgery. The testing is reimbursable by most medical insurance companies. Audiologists may also be further trained in balance testing and auditory rehabilitation.
In contrast, a hearing aid dispenser must be a high school graduate and 18 years old. Hearing Aid Dispensers are not required to have a college education; however, if they are licensed and board certified, they have passed the hearing aid licensing examination, or have undergone a national certification process. Most states also require a number of years working as an apprentice or associate before being eligible to become fully licensed. Testing done by a hearing aid dispenser can only be used for the sale of a hearing device.