Audiologists have special training in the prevention, diagnosis and non-medical treatment of hearing disorders. Qualifications include: a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited university, state licensure, completion of a full-time internship and passing a demanding competency examination. These professionals belong to several national organizations guided by a Code of Ethics requiring that audiologic services must be provided in an ethical manner. By virtue of their graduate education, professional certification and licensure, audiologists are the most qualified professionals to select and verify the performance of hearing aids.

Most of the hearing aids in the United States are fit by audiologists using the most advanced computerized procedures and state-of-the-art equipment to individualize each fitting. Hearing aid options are fully discussed with patients based on the results of a complete hearing aid evaluation that includes selection and verification of the devices most appropriate for the patient.

Audiologists provide extensive hearing aid services to patients with hearing loss. In addition, audiologists are experts with other types of assistive listening devices (ALDs) including individual and group listening systems, telecommunications devices and personal alerting equipment. Finally, audiologists provide education and training, which are crucial steps in ensuring that patients receive optimum benefit from amplification and communication devices.