LM203 - Teleaudiology: Beyond the Pandemic

Abstract:
Teleaudiology utilization increased dramatically with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite this, professionals are already moving back to in-person only service delivery. For audiology to keep up with patient needs, providers need to offer diverse options for consumption of services, including virtual care. If implemented successfully, teleaudiology can enhance connection with patients, improve continuity of care, and improve access. The current state of teleaudiology, impact of the pandemic, and state of the art in technology and models of care will be reviewed. Lastly, tangible next steps for audiologists interested in implementing or expanding teleaudiology in their clinical practice will be provided.

Summary:
Rationale: Teleaudiology service delivery is essential to extend the services of audiologists and cultivate greater equity in who has access to the services we provide. This is true for both clinical service delivery and research in hearing health care. While there has been increased utilization of teleaudiology services during the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence shows that providers plan to return to in-person only service delivery. It is important to understand the motivation behind this behavior, debunk myths, review the current state of teleaudiology solutions and models, and provide better guidance to ensure the profession of audiology evolves with society to best meet patients’ needs, reach those not receiving services, and increase representation in hearing research.

Design:
This presentation will provide a brief review of teleaudiology pre-, during, and post-pandemic to understand where we are currently and where we need to go to move forward. We will also provide an overview of the current state of the art in teleaudiology services and models of care, including the role of interprofessional collaboration. We will offer tangible guidance on next steps for those interested in implementing teleaudiology or expanding services within their practice or research.

Results:
There is significant evidence that teleaudiology service delivery is comparable to in-person care, and can even enhance the quality of service delivery. However, early evidence suggests that continued utilization after the pandemic is in jeopardy. The current state of the art in teleaudiology suggests that the advancement of technology and expansion of internet access provide the necessary tools for more robust clinical service delivery and hearing research via telehealth. Evidence also exists for expanded models of teleaudiology that are inclusive of interprofessional collaborations and the training programs necessary for implementation.

Conclusions:
If the profession of audiology does not embrace advancing technology solutions and models of care, we will fall short of meeting the needs of our patients and ensuring equal access to care. With increased training, awareness, and guidance, audiologists can leverage teleaudiology service delivery to improve quality of care and access to services. If implemented well, teleaudiology affords providers with an opportunity to increase patient connection and insight into their holistic needs. A review of the past, present, and future of teleaudiology, along with guidance on patient-centered care in remote environments will ensure audience members walk away with tangible next steps for using teleaudiology services to stay better connected with their patients.