About the International Hearing Society (IHS)
The International Hearing Society (IHS) is a global membership association representing hearing healthcare professionals. Established in 1951, IHS focuses on promoting the highest standards for its members, who are involved in testing human hearing, fitting hearing instruments, and counseling patients. The Society offers programs in competency accreditation, education, and training, and encourages specialty-level certification.Mission and Vision
Mission: To protect, represent, and promote the interests of hearing healthcare and hearing healthcare professionals.Vision: Empowering hearing healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality accessible hearing care.
Understanding the Candidate Guide
The Candidate Guide is designed to provide information related to the examination content for SLPs in Ohio. It includes details on exam sections, recommended study materials, and key scoring elements. However, administrative matters such as exam cost, dates, and eligibility criteria are managed by the licensing agency.Practical Examination Overview
The Practical Examination, developed by IHS, is used by licensing agencies across the United States and Canada to determine if candidates are qualified to practice as hearing aid specialists. The exam assesses hands-on skills required for independent practice.Description of a Successful Candidate
A successful candidate should be knowledgeable and capable of performing tasks within the scope of practice, including:- Determining and understanding a patient’s hearing needs
- Conducting and interpreting audiometric tests
- Fitting and dispensing hearing instruments
- Performing proper sanitation
- Recognizing when to refer patients to other healthcare professionals
Preparing for the Examination
The Practical Examination tests hands-on skills, so gaining practical experience is crucial. The guide recommends several reference materials to build foundational knowledge.Recommended Readings
- International Hearing Society. (2022). Professional training textbook in hearing health sciences.
- Bankaitis, A.U. & Kemp, R.J. (2005). Infection control in the audiology clinic.
- Martin, F.N. & Clark, J.G. (2012). Introduction to audiology.
- Taylor, B. & Mueller, H.G. (2011). Fitting and dispensing hearing aids.
Examination Outline
The Practical Exam consists of six sections, each with specific weight:- Otoscopy and Ear Impression: 15%
- Audiometric Evaluation: 25%
- Audiometric Interpretation: 20%
- Hearing Aid Selection, Fitting, and Follow-Up: 20%
- Verification: 10%
- Hearing Aid Troubleshooting: 10%
What to Bring
Ensure you have all necessary supplies for the exam:- Infection control supplies
- Ear impression supplies including an otoscope
- Calibrated audiometer with earphones
- Recorded speech materials
- Functioning hearing aid and programming device
- Laptop with fitting software
- Listening stethoscope
- Functional batteries in various sizes
- Battery tester
