Specialized healthcare professionals in the field of audiology provide diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitative services for individuals experiencing hearing or balance disorders within a specific Virginia city. These practitioners are trained to assess hearing acuity, identify the nature and extent of hearing loss, and recommend appropriate interventions, such as hearing aids or counseling. Locating a qualified professional in this area involves considering factors like specialization, experience, and patient reviews to ensure optimal care.
Access to audiological services is essential for maintaining communication abilities, improving quality of life, and preventing further complications associated with untreated hearing loss. Early detection and intervention are particularly critical for children’s speech and language development. Historically, advancements in diagnostic technology and hearing aid design have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of audiological care, allowing for more personalized and effective treatment plans. The availability of local expertise allows residents convenient access to these essential healthcare services.
This information serves as a foundation for further exploration of specific audiological conditions, diagnostic procedures, available treatments, and the selection process for choosing a suitable healthcare provider within the relevant geographical area.
1. Hearing Assessments
Hearing assessments, as conducted by audiological professionals within Newport News, Virginia, represent the cornerstone of identifying and addressing auditory health issues. These evaluations provide critical data for diagnosis and subsequent treatment strategies.
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Comprehensive Audiometry
Comprehensive audiometry involves a battery of tests designed to evaluate the sensitivity of hearing across different frequencies. Pure-tone audiometry establishes hearing thresholds, while speech audiometry assesses the ability to understand spoken words. In Newport News, this informs the audiologist about the type and severity of hearing loss, guiding decisions regarding hearing aids or further medical intervention.
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Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex Testing
Tympanometry measures the function of the middle ear, identifying potential issues such as fluid buildup or eardrum perforations. Acoustic reflex testing evaluates the response of the stapedius muscle to loud sounds. Within the Newport News audiology setting, these tests help differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, which is crucial for appropriate treatment planning and potential referrals to otolaryngologists.
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Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing
OAE testing measures the sounds produced by the inner ear’s outer hair cells. The presence or absence of these emissions can indicate the health of the cochlea. Audiologists in Newport News utilize OAEs, particularly in newborn hearing screenings, to identify potential hearing loss early in life, facilitating timely intervention and minimizing developmental delays in affected children.
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Speech Discrimination Testing
Beyond simply detecting sounds, speech discrimination testing assesses a patient’s ability to understand speech in both quiet and noisy environments. Audiologists in Newport News use this information to determine the impact of hearing loss on communication and to tailor hearing aid settings to optimize speech understanding. This aspect is vital for improving the overall quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments.
The specific combination of these assessments, as conducted by audiologists in Newport News, allows for a detailed understanding of an individual’s auditory function. These findings inform the development of personalized treatment plans, contributing to improved hearing health outcomes for residents of the area.
2. Balance Evaluations
Balance evaluations, as administered by audiologists in Newport News, Virginia, are integral to assessing and managing vestibular disorders. These evaluations focus on identifying the underlying causes of dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance, which can significantly impact an individual’s daily life. The expertise of audiologists in this area extends beyond auditory function to encompass the complexities of the inner ear’s role in maintaining equilibrium.
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Videonystagmography (VNG)
VNG is a comprehensive test that assesses inner ear and central motor functions through observation and recording of eye movements (nystagmus). In the Newport News context, audiologists utilize VNG to identify potential lesions or dysfunctions within the vestibular system, distinguishing between peripheral (inner ear) and central (brain) causes of balance problems. This differentiation is crucial for guiding appropriate medical or rehabilitative interventions.
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Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMPs)
VEMPs measure the function of specific vestibular organs by assessing the muscle reflexes triggered by sound or vibration stimuli. Audiologists in Newport News employ VEMPs to evaluate the saccule and utricle, which are responsible for detecting linear acceleration and head tilt. This allows for the identification of specific inner ear disorders, such as superior canal dehiscence, that may contribute to balance disturbances.
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Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)
CDP assesses a patient’s ability to maintain balance under various sensory conditions, such as standing on a moving platform or with altered visual input. Audiologists in Newport News utilize CDP to objectively measure postural control and identify specific sensory impairments that contribute to balance problems. This information is particularly useful for designing customized vestibular rehabilitation programs.
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Rotary Chair Testing
Rotary chair testing involves precisely controlled rotations of the patient in a specialized chair while monitoring eye movements. Audiologists in the Newport News area utilize this technique to evaluate the function of the horizontal semicircular canals, which are responsible for detecting rotational head movements. This is particularly helpful in diagnosing bilateral vestibular hypofunction, a condition where both inner ears are weakened, leading to chronic imbalance.
The comprehensive approach to balance evaluations offered by audiologists in Newport News allows for accurate diagnosis and individualized management of vestibular disorders. Through a combination of advanced testing techniques and specialized knowledge, these professionals play a vital role in improving the quality of life for individuals experiencing balance-related symptoms.
3. Hearing Aid Fitting
Hearing aid fitting, a critical service provided by audiologists in Newport News, Virginia, directly addresses the challenges posed by hearing loss. The process extends beyond simply dispensing a device; it encompasses comprehensive evaluation, selection, customization, and ongoing management to optimize hearing function. Audiologists in this geographical area employ specialized techniques, including real-ear measurements and speech mapping, to ensure the chosen hearing aid amplifies sound frequencies according to the individual’s unique hearing profile. For example, an individual experiencing high-frequency hearing loss might benefit from a hearing aid programmed to specifically target those frequencies, improving speech clarity. Without precise fitting, individuals may experience discomfort, distorted sound, or limited benefit from amplification, underscoring the importance of this service within the scope of audiological care.
The effectiveness of hearing aid fitting, as practiced by audiologists in Newport News, significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairment. Consider a scenario where a retired teacher, struggling to participate in conversations due to hearing loss, seeks professional assistance. A properly fitted hearing aid, adjusted by a qualified audiologist, can restore their ability to communicate effectively, enabling them to reconnect with family, engage in social activities, and maintain cognitive function. Furthermore, regular follow-up appointments with the audiologist are essential for making necessary adjustments, addressing any concerns, and ensuring optimal performance of the hearing aid over time. Failure to address these factors can lead to dissatisfaction with the device and a reduced likelihood of consistent use.
In summary, hearing aid fitting represents a vital component of audiological care in Newport News, Virginia. The process requires specialized expertise to properly assess individual needs, select the appropriate technology, and fine-tune the device for optimal performance. Challenges associated with hearing aid fitting include ensuring patient compliance with wearing schedules and addressing potential issues such as feedback or discomfort. Ultimately, the success of hearing aid fitting depends on the audiologist’s commitment to providing personalized care and ongoing support, thereby improving the auditory health and overall well-being of individuals in the community.
4. Tinnitus Management
Tinnitus management, as a component of audiological services in Newport News, Virginia, addresses the perception of sound in the absence of an external auditory stimulus. Individuals experiencing tinnitus may perceive ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other phantom noises. The etiology of tinnitus is multifactorial, often associated with hearing loss, noise exposure, head injuries, or certain medical conditions. Audiologists in Newport News play a crucial role in assessing the characteristics of tinnitus, identifying potential underlying causes, and developing individualized management strategies. The effectiveness of tinnitus management depends on accurate diagnosis and a patient-centered approach. For example, an individual working in a noisy environment might experience tinnitus related to noise-induced hearing damage, requiring hearing protection and sound therapy. Without proper management, tinnitus can lead to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and impaired concentration, significantly affecting quality of life.
The practical application of tinnitus management by audiologists in Newport News involves a range of therapeutic techniques. These may include counseling and education about tinnitus, sound therapy to mask or habituate to the perceived sound, cognitive-behavioral therapy to address psychological distress, and hearing aids to amplify external sounds and reduce the perception of tinnitus. Sound therapy, for instance, can utilize white noise generators or customized soundscapes to provide a distracting stimulus, reducing the perceived loudness or annoyance of tinnitus. The integration of these strategies aims to minimize the impact of tinnitus on an individual’s daily life. Some patients may also benefit from relaxation techniques or lifestyle modifications to reduce stress levels, as stress can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. Effective tinnitus management necessitates ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan based on the individual’s response.
In summary, tinnitus management within the context of audiological services in Newport News, Virginia, is a complex and multifaceted endeavor. Addressing the challenges associated with tinnitus requires a comprehensive understanding of its causes and impact. Audiologists in the area are equipped to provide tailored interventions, focusing on symptom reduction, improved coping mechanisms, and enhanced quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. The success of tinnitus management hinges on a collaborative effort between the audiologist and the patient, ensuring that treatment strategies are personalized and continuously adapted to meet individual needs. The integration of tinnitus management within the broader scope of audiology highlights the commitment to holistic hearing healthcare in the community.
5. Pediatric Audiology
Pediatric audiology, within the context of audiological services available in Newport News, Virginia, addresses the unique hearing healthcare needs of infants, children, and adolescents. The specialized expertise of audiologists in this area is crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and management of hearing loss and related disorders in the pediatric population, impacting speech, language, and overall development.
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Newborn Hearing Screenings
Newborn hearing screenings are mandated in many hospitals, including those serving Newport News, to identify potential hearing loss shortly after birth. Audiologists trained in pediatric assessment techniques perform these screenings, typically utilizing otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) or auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing. Early identification allows for prompt intervention, mitigating developmental delays associated with untreated hearing loss. Failure to identify hearing loss during this critical period can have significant consequences for a child’s communication skills and academic performance.
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Diagnostic Testing for Children
Diagnostic audiological testing for children, as conducted by audiologists in Newport News, involves age-appropriate techniques to assess hearing sensitivity, speech perception, and middle ear function. These may include visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA) for younger children and play audiometry for older children. Careful observation of behavioral responses and the use of objective measures provide valuable information for determining the type and degree of hearing loss. Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing individualized treatment plans tailored to the child’s specific needs.
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Hearing Aid Fitting and Management for Children
Hearing aid fitting and management for children require specialized knowledge and skills to ensure optimal amplification and comfort. Audiologists in Newport News select appropriate hearing aid styles and features, taking into account the child’s age, hearing loss configuration, and lifestyle. Real-ear measurements are used to verify that the hearing aid is providing appropriate amplification across different frequencies. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments are crucial to accommodate the child’s changing auditory needs and to ensure consistent hearing aid use.
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Counseling and Support for Families
Counseling and support for families are integral components of pediatric audiology services in Newport News. Audiologists provide education about hearing loss, communication strategies, and available resources. They collaborate with parents, educators, and other healthcare professionals to create a supportive environment that promotes the child’s communication and academic success. Addressing parental concerns and providing emotional support are essential for ensuring adherence to treatment recommendations and fostering positive outcomes for the child.
The provision of comprehensive pediatric audiology services by audiologists in Newport News ensures that children with hearing loss receive timely and appropriate care, maximizing their potential for communication, learning, and social development. The intersection of specialized expertise and family-centered care contributes to positive outcomes for children and their families in the community.
6. Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation, as practiced by audiologists in Newport News, Virginia, is a specialized form of therapy designed to alleviate symptoms associated with vestibular disorders. These disorders, affecting the inner ear and its connections to the brain, can manifest as dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and visual disturbances. An audiologist’s role in vestibular rehabilitation within Newport News encompasses assessment of vestibular function and implementation of customized exercise programs. The objective is to improve gaze stability, balance, and reduce the severity of symptoms. For example, an individual experiencing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a common vestibular disorder, might undergo canalith repositioning maneuvers guided by an audiologist to resolve the condition.
The significance of vestibular rehabilitation as a component of audiological care in Newport News lies in its ability to improve the functional abilities of individuals with vestibular impairments. Consider a scenario involving a patient who has sustained a concussion and subsequently developed persistent dizziness and imbalance. Through targeted exercises prescribed by an audiologist, the patient can retrain the brain to compensate for the vestibular dysfunction. These exercises might involve eye movement control, balance training on unstable surfaces, or simulated real-world scenarios. Consistent participation in vestibular rehabilitation can enable the patient to return to daily activities, such as driving or walking unassisted, thereby enhancing their quality of life. Audiologists in Newport News work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to vestibular management.
In summary, vestibular rehabilitation is an essential service offered by audiologists in Newport News, Virginia, for individuals experiencing vestibular disorders. Its effectiveness depends on a thorough assessment, individualized exercise programs, and consistent patient participation. Challenges associated with vestibular rehabilitation include adherence to the exercise regimen and the potential for temporary symptom exacerbation. However, the benefits of improved balance, reduced dizziness, and enhanced functional abilities underscore the importance of this therapeutic modality in the broader context of audiological care, providing tangible improvements in the lives of individuals affected by vestibular dysfunction. The availability of local expertise ensures Newport News residents have access to effective treatment for these conditions.
7. Hearing Protection
Hearing protection, a critical component of preventative audiological care, directly intersects with the services provided by audiologists in Newport News, Virginia. The preservation of auditory function necessitates proactive measures against noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), a prevalent and preventable condition. Local audiologists play a key role in educating the public and providing customized solutions for hearing protection within this specific geographic area.
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Custom-Molded Earplugs
Custom-molded earplugs offer a personalized fit, maximizing noise reduction and comfort for individuals exposed to high levels of sound. Audiologists in Newport News can create impressions of an individual’s ear canals, resulting in earplugs specifically tailored to their anatomy. This approach ensures a secure seal, effectively attenuating noise across various frequencies. Musicians, construction workers, and industrial employees in Newport News can benefit from custom-molded earplugs, reducing the risk of NIHL associated with their professions. The superior fit also encourages consistent use, enhancing long-term hearing health outcomes.
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Hearing Conservation Programs
Audiologists in Newport News often collaborate with local industries and organizations to implement hearing conservation programs. These programs encompass noise assessments, employee training on the proper use of hearing protection, and annual audiometric testing to monitor hearing thresholds. By partnering with employers, audiologists contribute to a safer work environment, reducing the incidence of NIHL and associated healthcare costs. These programs also emphasize the importance of regular hearing check-ups and early intervention for any detected hearing changes.
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Selection of Appropriate Hearing Protection
Choosing the correct type of hearing protection is essential for effective noise reduction. Audiologists in Newport News can guide individuals in selecting appropriate earplugs or earmuffs based on the specific noise levels and frequencies encountered in their environment. Factors such as noise reduction rating (NRR), comfort, and ease of use are considered to ensure optimal protection. This expertise is particularly valuable for individuals participating in recreational activities such as shooting sports or attending concerts, where noise levels can exceed safe thresholds.
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Education and Counseling on Noise Exposure
Audiologists in Newport News provide education and counseling on the risks of noise exposure and strategies for protecting hearing. This includes information on safe listening levels for personal audio devices, the importance of taking breaks from noisy environments, and the cumulative effects of noise exposure over time. By raising awareness and promoting responsible hearing health behaviors, audiologists empower individuals to make informed decisions that protect their auditory well-being. Educational outreach can extend to schools and community events, further disseminating knowledge about hearing conservation.
The provision of hearing protection services by audiologists in Newport News directly contributes to the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss, a condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. By offering customized solutions, implementing hearing conservation programs, and providing education, these professionals play a crucial role in safeguarding the hearing health of the community, preserving auditory function for years to come.
8. Communication Strategies
Effective communication strategies are integral to the services offered by audiologists practicing within Newport News, Virginia. These strategies serve to bridge communication gaps created by hearing loss, facilitating interaction between patients and their environment and fostering a better understanding of audiological care.
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Auditory Rehabilitation
Auditory rehabilitation focuses on improving a patient’s ability to understand speech and other sounds, even with the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants. For audiologists in Newport News, this involves techniques such as auditory training exercises, speechreading instruction, and environmental modification strategies. For instance, a patient with a new hearing aid might participate in auditory training sessions to improve their ability to discriminate between similar-sounding words. The goal is to maximize the benefits of amplification and improve overall communication effectiveness.
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Counseling and Education
Counseling and education are vital aspects of the patient-audiologist relationship. Within the Newport News context, audiologists provide information on hearing loss, its causes, treatment options, and strategies for managing its impact on daily life. They address patient concerns, answer questions, and provide emotional support. Effective counseling promotes patient understanding, adherence to treatment recommendations, and improved coping mechanisms. For example, audiologists counsel patients about the importance of hearing protection to prevent further hearing loss.
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Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
Assistive listening devices complement hearing aids in challenging listening situations. Audiologists in Newport News assess the need for and recommend ALDs, such as FM systems, infrared systems, or induction loop systems, to improve communication in specific environments, like classrooms or theaters. ALDs enhance speech clarity by reducing background noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio. For example, a student with hearing loss might use an FM system in the classroom, allowing the teacher’s voice to be transmitted directly to their hearing aid.
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Communication Partner Training
Communication partner training involves educating family members and caregivers on effective communication strategies to support individuals with hearing loss. Audiologists in Newport News provide guidance on techniques such as speaking clearly, maintaining eye contact, reducing background noise, and rephrasing misunderstood information. This training fosters a more supportive communication environment and improves the overall quality of interactions. For instance, a spouse of an individual with hearing loss might learn to face the person when speaking and avoid shouting, which can distort speech sounds.
The integration of communication strategies within audiological services provided in Newport News, Virginia, enhances the effectiveness of hearing healthcare interventions. By addressing the broader communication needs of individuals with hearing loss, audiologists contribute to improved social interactions, increased independence, and enhanced quality of life. These strategies are not merely ancillary services, but rather integral components of a holistic approach to audiological care, designed to optimize communication outcomes for individuals in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding audiological care, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options available from qualified professionals in the specified Virginia location.
Question 1: What constitutes a comprehensive audiological evaluation?
A comprehensive audiological evaluation typically involves a series of tests, including pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex testing, to assess hearing sensitivity, speech understanding, and middle ear function.
Question 2: How does an audiologist differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss?
Audiologists use various diagnostic tests, such as tympanometry and bone conduction audiometry, to determine whether hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear (conductive) or by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve (sensorineural).
Question 3: What factors should be considered when selecting a hearing aid?
Factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid include the type and severity of hearing loss, lifestyle needs, cosmetic preferences, and budget. Consultation with a qualified audiologist is crucial for selecting an appropriate device.
Question 4: What are the primary goals of vestibular rehabilitation?
The primary goals of vestibular rehabilitation are to reduce dizziness, improve balance, and enhance gaze stability through a series of customized exercises designed to retrain the brain to compensate for vestibular dysfunction.
Question 5: How can individuals protect their hearing from noise-induced hearing loss?
Hearing protection measures include wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, limiting exposure to loud sounds, and maintaining safe listening levels when using personal audio devices. Regular hearing check-ups are also recommended.
Question 6: What communication strategies can assist individuals with hearing loss?
Communication strategies encompass techniques such as speaking clearly, maintaining eye contact, reducing background noise, and using assistive listening devices to improve speech understanding in various communication settings.
These questions and answers offer fundamental insights into audiological care. Seeking professional consultation with a qualified audiologist provides more personalized and detailed information.
These FAQs serve as a preface to a deeper exploration of specific audiological treatments and technologies.
Hearing Health Tips
The following tips are designed to promote optimal hearing health and well-being. Adherence to these guidelines can contribute to the prevention of hearing loss and the effective management of existing auditory conditions.
Tip 1: Undergo Regular Audiological Evaluations Routine hearing tests are crucial for the early detection of hearing loss and other auditory disorders. Schedule comprehensive audiological evaluations with a qualified professional on a regular basis, particularly if you have a family history of hearing loss, are exposed to loud noise, or experience any changes in your hearing.
Tip 2: Employ Hearing Protection in Noisy Environments Consistent use of hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, is essential for mitigating the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. When exposed to loud noise, ensure that hearing protection is properly fitted and consistently worn to attenuate sound levels and safeguard auditory function.
Tip 3: Practice Safe Listening Habits Monitoring and adjusting the volume levels on personal audio devices can significantly reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. The general recommendation is to listen at no more than 60% of the device’s maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Taking breaks from headphone use is also advisable.
Tip 4: Manage Cerumen (Earwax) Accumulation Carefully Excessive earwax buildup can cause temporary hearing loss or discomfort. Consult a healthcare professional for safe and effective earwax removal, avoiding the use of cotton swabs, which can push the wax further into the ear canal.
Tip 5: Address Tinnitus Promptly If you experience persistent ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears (tinnitus), seek professional evaluation. Tinnitus can be a symptom of underlying hearing loss or other medical conditions, and early intervention may help manage the symptoms and prevent further complications.
Tip 6: Maintain Cardiovascular Health Cardiovascular health is closely linked to auditory function. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels can contribute to improved blood flow to the inner ear, supporting optimal hearing.
Adopting these practices into daily routines can contribute significantly to the preservation of auditory function. Early detection and proactive intervention are key elements in maintaining long-term hearing health and overall well-being.
These tips serve as a starting point for taking proactive steps toward maintaining and protecting auditory health. For further guidance or clarification, consultation with a qualified audiological professional is recommended.
Audiologist Newport News VA
This exploration of audiological services within Newport News, Virginia, has underscored the breadth and depth of care available. From comprehensive hearing assessments and balance evaluations to hearing aid fitting and tinnitus management, specialized professionals address a spectrum of auditory and vestibular needs. The importance of pediatric audiology and preventative measures, such as hearing protection, has been emphasized, along with the application of communication strategies to enhance patient outcomes.
Ultimately, access to qualified audiological care is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Residents are encouraged to prioritize their auditory health through regular check-ups, proactive hearing protection, and prompt intervention when experiencing hearing or balance concerns. Continued advancements in diagnostic technology and treatment options hold the promise of further improvements in audiological care for the Newport News community and beyond.
