What can I expect?
Initial Screening
The evaluation process begins with the first conversation you have with the clinic. You may be asked a few screening questions which help the clinic to determine the most efficient course of action for you. The clinic will be able to answer your questions regarding the evaluation procedures, time and costs involved with setting the Initial Evaluation appointment.
Initial Evaluation
The purpose of the Initial Evaluation is to determine the extent of your tinnitus problem in three specific areas (1) reaction to tinnitus (2) hearing sensitivity (3) sound tolerance. The tinnitus practitioners will use a series of subjective and objective measurements to develop a comprehensive individualized treatment and/or referral plan. Measurements include the following:
- Self-administered questionnaires and handicap inventories
- Case history, interview and review of self-administered questionnaires
- Audiological assessment including hearing, tinnitus and sound tolerance testing
In a few cases, based on the results of the initial evaluation, the TPA audiologist may determine that additional testing is necessary in order to clinically identify the type of tinnitus and any underlying conditions.
Consultation
The TPA Audiologist will now discuss the results of your testing with you. Included will be:
- Review of subjective measurements (questionnaires, case history, inventories)
- Review of objective measurements (hearing, tinnitus and sound tolerance evaluations)
- Educational Tinnitus Counseling based on individualized correlation of subjective and objective measurements
Recommendations
The TPA audiologist will consider all the information gathered about your tinnitus and the problems associated with the tinnitus to develop an individualized treatment plan for you. The plan will include:
- Presentation of individualized treatment/management plan
- Instrumentation, if indicated
- Follow Up Schedule
- Cooperative Agreement to the treatment plan including realistic expectations
The TPA audiologist is the best source of information about your hearing, tinnitus and sound tolerance and the effect they have on the quality of your life. To find a TPA audiologist near you,
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