What to Expect at Your First Audiology Appointment
Your First Visit to an Audiologist: A Complete Guide
Visiting an audiologist for the first time can feel uncertain, but knowing what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared. At AuDSLP in Elmwood Park, NJ, we strive to make every patient’s experience comfortable, informative, and productive. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough of what happens during your first appointment.
Before Your Appointment
Schedule wisely: Plan for approximately 60 minutes for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. If you are being seen for a specific concern like tinnitus or balance issues, the appointment may be longer.
Gather your information: Bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of all current medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), any relevant medical records or referrals from your physician, and a list of your hearing concerns and questions.
Bring a companion: We encourage you to bring a family member or friend. Having a familiar voice present helps during certain tests, and a companion can help you remember the information discussed during your consultation.
Step 1: Check-In and Intake Forms
Arrive about 10–15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork. This includes your medical history, hearing history, and a questionnaire about your hearing concerns and communication difficulties. These forms help Dr. Boiselle understand your unique situation before testing begins.
Step 2: Case History Discussion
Dr. Boiselle will begin by discussing your hearing concerns in detail. Common questions include: When did you first notice changes in your hearing? Which situations are most difficult? Do you experience ringing or buzzing in your ears? Have you been exposed to loud noise? Is there a family history of hearing loss? This conversation guides which tests will be most relevant for you.
Step 3: Ear Examination
Using an otoscope, Dr. Boiselle will examine your ear canals and eardrums. This quick, painless look checks for earwax blockage, signs of infection, eardrum perforations, or other visible issues that could affect your hearing or require medical referral.
Step 4: Hearing Tests
The testing battery is selected based on your specific needs. Common tests include pure-tone audiometry (measuring the softest sounds you can hear), speech audiometry (measuring your ability to understand words), tympanometry (assessing middle ear function), and otoacoustic emissions testing (evaluating inner ear health). All tests are non-invasive and painless.
Step 5: Results Review and Recommendations
After testing, Dr. Boiselle will explain your results in clear, understandable terms using your audiogram—a visual chart of your hearing. You will learn whether hearing loss is present, what type it is, how severe it is, and what treatment options are available. If hearing aids are recommended, Dr. Boiselle will discuss styles, technology levels, and brands suited to your needs.
After Your Appointment
You will receive a copy of your test results to share with your primary care physician or referring provider. If treatment is recommended, our team will discuss next steps including scheduling, insurance coverage, and financing options. There is never any pressure—we want you to make an informed decision that feels right for you.
Ready to take the first step? Contact AuDSLP or call (201) 773-8962 to schedule your appointment today.