Question
How did digital ear scanning start out?
Answer
Don Kim, AuD: Digital ear scanning started because the U.S. Navy was looking for a new solution that can provide optimal hearing protection. The traditional method was very inefficient. It required that military personnel get ear impressions made when they are off the ship which would potentially increase the noise exposure and then increase the chance of potential post-traumatic stress for warfighters. While waiting, the sailors wore generic ear plugs or other inferior hearing protection. So in order to address this need, the Navy offered a grant―that was later awarded to a company who developed the earlier version of the technology that is the foundation of Otometrics’ ear scanning solution today.
Jackie Phillips, AuD: On that note, Otoscan® today is based on the foundation of workflow efficiency. Today, it is a complete digital ear scanning solution that helps today’s hearing health care providers attract more patients and convert more patients while also delivering a new and more efficient level of patient care. Otoscan 3D ear scanning is Otometrics’ newest technology developed by and for hearing care professionals as a tool to create engaging, personalized hearing care experiences.
For audiologists who simply want an introduction to digital ear scanning with Otoscan, I recommend the Audiology Online course 3D Ear Scanning: The Future is Now!
This Ask the Expert is an excerpt from the interview, Rethink Audiology: Delivering Personalized Care In the Age of Over-the-Counter Solutions.
