Hearing Matters Podcast Friday Audiogram: Beyond Real Ear Measurement - Why Patient Perception Matters
Ray Woodworth takes us on a deep dive into the nuances of hearing aid fittings, sharing insights from his dual perspective as both a 47-year hearing aid wearer and an industry professional. He challenges the notion that real ear measurement alone is enough for optimal fittings, advocating instead for a balanced approach that honors both objective measurements and subjective patient feedback.
Drawing from his experience of fitting countless patients with custom technology, Ray explains why custom ear molds are crucial for patients with moderate to severe hearing loss, especially in the low frequencies. "When you run real ear measurement with a dome versus a custom, I've seen a 9dB difference," he notes, emphasizing how this can dramatically improve streaming quality and overall sound experience. The anatomical uniqueness of each ear—from curved canals that resist dome placement to surgical modifications that require specialized approaches—further underscores the need for customization.
Most compellingly, Ray shares his personal journey with hearing loss, revealing that despite having measurable thresholds in his right ear, standard target-matching through real ear measurement creates uncomfortable distortion. This highlights the critical importance of patient perception, which can't be captured by measurement tools alone. Using the metaphor of a light dimmer, he explains how patients who have lived with hearing loss for years may need time to adjust to proper amplification, requiring hearing care professionals to balance technical perfection with practical comfort.
What truly sets exceptional hearing healthcare apart isn't just technical expertise or high-tech equipment—it's the humility to listen to patients and respect their subjective experience. "We have to be humble and listen to the patient, no matter how much we know," Ray emphasizes, "because the patient tells us the truth." Ready to experience hearing care that values both science and your unique perception? Tune in to learn more about this balanced approach.
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