Audiologist vs. ENT Specialist vs. Hearing Aid Specialist: Key Differences

Hearing loss shouldn't be ignored — what might feel like a minor inconvenience could actually be affecting your day-to-day life more than you realize. But if you're seeing a doctor for the first time, you may have no idea where to start.

While there are many similarities between ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialists, hearing aid specialists and audiologists, there are also significant differences. In the end, they often work together to help you find the best hearing aid solution. So don't worry about picking the wrong person — if one specialist can't help, they'll refer you to someone who can.

This guide can help you decide which specific hearing specialist may be the best fit for your situation. However, always consider consulting your primary care physician first for more information before making a decision.

What Is an Audiologist?

Audiologists are a common choice when it comes to getting help for hearing loss. They are fully qualified to diagnose and treat many cases of hearing loss.

While they are not physicians, audiologists are medical professionals with a master's degree or doctor of audiology (Au.D.).¹ It typically takes four years after their bachelor's to obtain an Au.D. Next, they complete a clinical fellowship and pass an exam before obtaining their license.

Unlike ENT specialists, audiologists don't prescribe medicine or perform surgeries.² They are, however, licensed to sell hearing aids and help with auditory rehabilitation.³ (In a few states, audiologists must obtain a separate license before they can sell hearing aids.⁴)

When to see an audiologist

Audiologists not only give diagnostic hearing tests to people of all ages but they can also test for inner ear or balance disorders.⁵ They'll determine the type of treatment you need based on the results.

They typically help people who have gradual hearing loss, tinnitus or balance issues.³ They can guide you in choosing which type of hearing aid you need, and help with follow-up care or adjustments later.⁵

See an audiologist when:

• You notice hearing loss, especially if it's not dramatic and sudden²
• You need a hearing test²
• You experience tinnitus or have balance issues³
• You need to determine what hearing aid is right for you²

What Is an ENT Specialist?

An ear, nose and throat doctor — also known as an ENT specialist or otolaryngologist — is a medical doctor who can prescribe medicine and perform surgeries if needed.¹ By the time an ENT specialist is practicing medicine, they've typically had at least 15 years of education.⁶

ENT specialists diagnose and treat problems involving the ear, nose, throat and neck — ranging from trauma and tumors to disease and even allergies.⁶ They can prescribe medicine, order CT or MRI scans and more.³ Some even get additional training to specialize in specific types of surgeries or more complex, rarer illnesses.

When to see an ENT specialist

ENT specialists treat a wide range of disorders and can be especially helpful for unusual cases of hearing loss that aren't a natural part of aging. Many people see ENT specialists after they're referred by their primary care doctor or audiologist.²

You might see an ENT specialist when:

• You have sudden hearing loss²
• You had an infection or injury preceding hearing loss²
• An audiologist or primary care doctor can't identify the cause²
• You need prescription medication or surgery²
• You're experiencing balance, vertigo issues or tinnitus³
• You have pain or unusual drainage in the ear³

ENT specialists may refer you to an audiologist if you have more general hearing loss issues rather than trauma or disease.⁶

What Is a Hearing Aid Specialist?

If you just want a hearing aid and don't believe you need any extensive testing, then you might consider going straight to a hearing aid specialist.

Hearing aid specialists (sometimes called hearing instrument specialists) must have a state license to practice.¹ The exact requirement varies from state to state, but often includes a two-year apprenticeship. These specialists typically only need a high school diploma before their internship.⁵

When to see a hearing aid specialist

Hearing aid specialists are trained to test, fit and sell hearing aids. They can help patients find the right devices to improve their specific hearing difficulties.¹ But they are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose or treat disorders.

You might see a hearing aid specialist if:

• You already saw a doctor who said you needed hearing aids
• You have mild hearing loss³
• You want to buy hearing aids or need help fixing a current pair of hearing aids³

CareCredit Financing for Ear Care

The CareCredit credit card can help you pay for hearing care, including regular hearing tests, screenings and more.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a hearing specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue to invest in your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

Author Bio

Stephanie Dwilson specializes in science journalism, breaking news and animal health and is a business owner, non-practicing attorney and writer.