Continuing Education Units
A maximum 9 (nine) Professional Development Hours (PDHs) are offered for this 2 day conference.
One PDH equates to 0.1 ASHA Continuing Education Units (CEU).
In order to obtain credits, the learner is expected to complete a session in its’ entirety and is required to provide an intent to change statement.
The information on this page includes the presenter, co-authors, abstract overview disclosures, learning outcomes and PDHs available per session.
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FRIDAY 24 October 2025
Session 1: 90 mins = 1.5 PDH’s
08:45 – 09:45 Room 1
Dr. Asitha Jayawardena
From global to local and back again: stories and lessons learned as a global citizen in school-based hearing screening.
Disclosures:
Dr. Jayawardena receives a consulting and speaking fee from Integra.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze how global models of school-based hearing screening can be adapted to fit local contexts, and describe how local experiences can, in turn, inform and strengthen global practices.
09:45 – 10:15 Room 1
Dr. James Hall 111
Promoting Healthy Hearing Over the Lifespan
Disclosures:
Dr. Hall receives a salary from University of Hawaii.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to identify strategies for promoting healthy hearing habits across different stages of life, from childhood through older adulthood.
Session 2: 60 mins = 1 PDH’s – 2 speakers failed to submit disclosures
11:00 – 11:15 – Room 1
Morgan McBride
Can Tablet-Based Testing Differentiate Conductive from Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children?
Disclosures:
Presenter has not yet reported on financial or non-financial relationship. ASHA CEU credits are not available for this lecture
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the potential and limitations of tablet-based hearing tests in distinguishing between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss in children.
11:15 – 11:30 Room 1
Presenter: Audra Renyi
How to Leverage AI to Help Increase Access to Hearing Aids & Hearing Care in Low-Resource Settings
ChatGPT and other AI platforms offer powerful, low-cost tools for NGOs working to improve hearing aid access in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In contexts with limited resources and hearing health professionals, AI tools can help bridge critical gaps in communication, education, and operations. For frontline workers, AI platforms can provide real-time support—generating multilingual counseling scripts, community outreach messages, and culturally appropriate educational materials. This can boost awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage earlier intervention. Operationally, NGOs can use tools like ChatGPT to automate grant writing, training content, and reporting, freeing up staff time and increasing productivity. It can also assist with data analysis and summarizing field reports to support monitoring and decision-making. When used responsibly, AI can help enhance the scale, quality, and sustainability of hearing aid programs, making equitable hearing care more accessible in underserved communities.
Disclosures:
Audra Renyi receives a salary from World Wide Hearing Foundation International.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to examine ways in which artificial intelligence can be applied to expand access to hearing aids and hearing care services in low-resource settings.
11:30 – 11:45 Room1
Presenter: Odile Clavier
Co-Authors: Mattheus Ueckermann & Brian Graybill
Open-source platform for hearing research and low-cost device development
The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that medical devices must become “globally available, accessible, appropriate and affordable.” In 2017, the WHO unanimously adopted a resolution to prioritize making ear and hearing care available and accessible. There is therefore a need to develop hearing technologies that are globally available, accessible and affordable. Open-Source Hardware (OSH) makes designs publicly available so that anyone can study, modify, distribute, make, and sell the hardware, reducing the cost of new product design and development. OSH offers a decentralized and collaborative model for innovation with opportunities for social, economic, and ecological sustainability by empowering people worldwide to participate. We present the Open Hearing platform, a low-cost OSH and software kit designed to increase access to, and expand the reach of, advanced hearing research beyond well-funded laboratories in high-income countries. The platform brings together three key technologies. At its core is the Tympan, originally developed as an open-source hearing-aid research device now expanded to include embedded software for complex hearing tests. Tympan’s newest accessory is the Auren, an in-ear probe with two speakers and four miniature microphones designed to measure otoacoustic emissions, wideband acoustic immittance, and wideband middle-ear muscle reflexes. Tympan can also perform basic audiometry using audiometric headphones. To control the Tympan, the existing open-source TabSINT mobile application has been refactored with state-of-the-art software technologies and provides an intuitive user interface and data back-end. TabSINT also easily connects to a new open-science repository specially designed for hearing data. We present calibration procedures using 3D-printed tools with low-cost off-the-shelf acoustic components and the results of laboratory validation including early human-subject results. With its permissive open-source license, the Open Hearing platform has potential to both increase the reach of research and encourage local manufacturing and retail of new hearing-test devices in low-resource countries.
Disclosures:
Dr. Clavier has ownership interests and board membership at WAHTS hearing LLC.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to explore how open-source platforms can support hearing research and enable the development of affordable hearing care technologies.
11:45 – 12:00 Room 1
Presenters: Arianne Fong, Trinity Lee, and Rustin Katsura.
Pricing Survey and Affordable DPOAE Concept for Under-Resourced Settings
Each year, millions of newborns are affected by hearing loss, yet access to early detection remains limited in under-resourced regions (1). In Guatemala, with approximately 518,700 births annually (2,3), our collaborator, Fundación Sonrisas que Escuchan, is able to screen 18,000 newborns per year. Systemic barriers such as the shortage of trained audiologists, high costs of hearing screening devices, and limited infrastructure prevent equitable access to early diagnosis and intervention at scale (4,5). In response, our team, comprising engineering and business students from the Design Justice Studio at Babson College and Olin College, has chosen to address this gap by designing an affordable, user-friendly distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) hearing screening device (6). Starting at CGHH 2019, the team has engaged more than 40 people representing hearing health programs in 15 countries. To ensure the device is well-suited for local community-based hearing health programs globally, we are collaborating closely with audiologist Patricia Castellanos de Muñoz, and her organizations, Fundación Sonrisas Que Escuchan and CEDAF Guatemala, as well as midwife Jessica Petrone and her organization Birth Matters midwifery in Massachusetts. Through iterative prototyping, stakeholder feedback, and cost-performance tradeoff analysis, we have created a handheld device concept. It incorporates a durable probe with mini-HDMI connectors and a power management system to keep costs low while working all day on a single charge. Our 2024-2025 device pricing survey found current hearing screening devices range from US$4500-$16000. Our updated cost analysis shows an estimated device sale price 20-50% of commercial alternatives through implementation partner Solar Ear. To verify the prototype performance before entering human trials, we are seeking access to a Baby ISAO simulator for preclinical testing. We are also transitioning to an open source hardware approach to share our development globally and garner more collaborators.
Disclosures:
The presenters are students at Olin College and Babson College Design Justice Studio
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to assess pricing considerations for distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) technology and discuss strategies for developing affordable solutions tailored to under-resourced settings.
12:00 – 12:15 Room 1
Presenter: Wezi Msukwa-Panje
Acceptability of bone conduction hearing devices among school going children in urban Blantyre, Malawi: a qualitative study.
Authors: Wezi Msukwa-Panje, Helen Mangochi, Prof. Wakisa Mulwafu, Dr. Thomas Hampton Background Bone conduction hearing devices offer a promising solution for people with hearing impairments (1), yet their consistent use remains a challenge. This qualitative study explored the acceptability of using the devices among school-going children with hearing impairments, who had been given the devices to use over a period of eight weeks. Methods Semi structured interviews were conducted with 16 children aged between 9-17 using the devices from urban schools in Blantyre, Malawi. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in device use, perceptions, and user experience. Findings Findings reveal that while children acknowledged the functional benefits of the devices such as improved hearing, and better classroom participation, these advantages did not necessarily translate into sustained or consistent use. Acceptability was deeply shaped by social context, institutional support, and children’s internal negotiations of identity. In schools where teachers supported device use by helping with charging and consistently wearing the microphones, acceptability was higher. However, in less supportive environments, children reported device abandonment. Device visibility triggered peer stigma, fear of teasing, and conditional acceptance, especially in unsupervised settings. Many children described feeling different or ashamed, leading to reluctance to ask for help or to wear the device openly. Technical issues including frequent charging, interference noise, and the bulkiness of the device further undermined sustained use. Conclusions These findings highlight the complex interplay between device functionality, social norms, and children’s sense of self. Promoting long-term acceptability requires improved design and sustained social support from teachers, families, and peers to reduce stigma, affirm identity, and foster confidence in assistive technology use.
Disclosures:
Presenter has not yet reported on financial or non-financial relationship. ASHA CEU credits are not available for this lecture
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze factors influencing the acceptability of bone conduction hearing devices among school-aged children in an urban Malawian context, based on qualitative research findings.
12: 15 – 12:30 Room 1
Presenter: Kalishia Naidu
A Scoping Review of Studies Related to Amplification in South Africa
Amplification is an important part of the EHDI pathway for paediatric clients. Studies have indicated that this is a neglected component in research. For adults, little is known about studies relating to types of amplification or verification of outcomes. This study aims to explore the studies related to hearing amplification technology in South Africa. This study aimed was to determine the themes of hearing aid related research, to identify trends related to amplification as well as gaps in practice and research. Methodology: A scoping review of articles related to any kind of hearing amplification technology in South Africa was conducted, following the JBI review framework. A search of peer-reviewed literature was carried out across the EBSCOhost, PubMed, Scopus, Sabinet and Web of Science databases to identify studies published between January 2000 and May 2025. Following screening and selection, data was extracted and thematically analysed. Results: 37 articles were eligible for inclusion. The review identified significant challenges related to hearing amplification access and use in South Africa. Delays in diagnosis and audiological intervention were reported in the public and private sector, contributing to poorer outcomes, especially for cochlear implant candidates. Lack of amplification device knowledge and difficulties with maintenance posed challenges to amplification device use and acceptance. Factors such as multilingualism, financial constraints, and distance from audiological facilities further limited access. Bilateral fittings and early intervention were associated with improved aural performance, while children with additional disabilities demonstrated poorer outcomes. Conclusion: Limited resources, financial barriers, and limited awareness continue to hinder effective service delivery and device use. Improving accessibility and outcomes requires context-specific strategies that enhance patient and caregiver involvement, community support, and service delivery. Studies related to outcome measures is a research gap that needs to be filled.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to summarize the scope of existing research on amplification in South Africa and identify gaps that inform future clinical practice and policy development.
Session 3: 90 mins = 1.5 PDH’s
11:00 – 11:15 Room 2
Presenter: Donna Sorkin
Language Nutrition: The Key Role of Families in Fostering Language and Literacy
The critical impact of the early language environment on typically hearing children has been explored in a number of studies. Dana Suskind’s best-selling book, Thirty Million Words, popularized the concept of neuroplasticity in an infant’s brain as well as the importance of the baby-caretaker relationship in which mothers exude the comfortable warmth of mixing language with physical touches. Suskind’s work was inspired by the 1995 Hart & Risley study of children in 42 families that found meaningful differences in the linguistic experiences of children based upon socio-economic characteristics. These concepts were further advanced by pediatric nurses (Zache et al, 2017) advising parents on their key role in their child’s future education using the term “Language Nutrition.” Pediatric providers were encouraged to teach parents how to engage as conversational partners with their young children to stimulate language-rich interactions leading to high educational attainment and improved health outcomes. More recently these concepts have been recognized as a crucial component of family training for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Public and private schools in Georgia implemented programs to advance reading skills by involving families and educational professionals. Research demonstrates the importance of using the language of the home to maximize language learning and social/emotional well-being. We now recognize that the comfortable give and take between care-givers and children is best carried out in the language of the home. It is the quantity and quality of language at home that makes a difference in building a child’s learning and language. This session will review research and practice on Language Nutrition with emphasis on how care-giver interactions can maximize language learning and literacy for children who are deaf or hard of hearing–regardless of the family’s socio-economic status–by using parent talk and the family’s home language.
Disclosures:
Donna receives a salary from the American Cochlear Implant Alliance and holds a management position.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to explain how family interactions and “language nutrition” contribute to children’s language development and early literacy skills.
11:15 – 11:30 Room 2
Presenter: Shampa Nath
Family-Centred Early Intervention (FCEI) Principles in Action (A case study from India)
Disclosures:
Shampa Nath receives a salary from National Deaf Children’s Society.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe how Family-Centred Early Intervention (FCEI) principles can be applied in practice, using lessons learned from a case study in India.
11:30 – 11:45 Room 2
Presenter: Nomataru Gontse
The experience of hearing loss in families with deaf school-going adolescents within a rural context in South Africa
Mothers in rural areas know little about the services available when their child has a hearing loss. Due to a shortage of appropriately trained professionals for the provision of intervention services, 90% of children with hearing loss cannot access services, as they may live in geographically dispersed areas. The literature review reveals a policy development and implementation gap concerning the management of deafness, particularly in low-resourced areas, faced with challenges such as access to audiological services and awareness about deafness. This implementation gap impacts communication and relationships within the home or family environment. Objectives • This study is part of a PhD study. It links to Objective One, to determine hearing parents and their deaf adolescents’ knowledge and perceptions about deafness. It is also linked to Objective Two, which was to identify the challenges hearing families face in dealing with deafness after the diagnosis, and communication and relationships in the home environment Method: The study used a descriptive survey completed by parents and learners based on their perceptions and experiences of deafness in their homes. One hundred hearing parents and 100 deaf learners completed self-administered questionnaires. Learners were between the ages of 12 and 21 years old, and parents or primary caregivers were between 23 to 72 years old, related to the child either as a sibling, mother, father, uncle, aunt, or grandmother. Results: This study’s main findings indicate that most parents and their deaf children lack knowledge about the causes and implications of deafness. Although families and communities have accepted deaf children, communication remains a big issue, as hearing families cannot communicate with their deaf children. Conclusion: Families in rural areas experience difficulties in raising their deaf children due to a lack of information and support, and this has implications for interventions.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze the experiences and challenges faced by families of deaf adolescents in rural South Africa, and discuss their implications for support and intervention.
11:45 – 1200 – Room 2
Presenter: Mary Clark
Co-author: Jessica Beaty Bajan
A Deaf Ecological Systems Approach to Raising a Deaf Child
Bronfenbrenner (2005) proposed an embedded systems approach to development that included bidirectional interactions between biology and ecology (see also Gottlieb, 2007). This Bronfenbrenner system has six levels including the microsystem, the mesosystem, the ecosystem, the macrosystem, and the chronosystem. The microsystem includes the child and all the systems that directly impact that child such as family, peers, school, the neighborhood, and extended family. For a deaf child, often these systems are thrown out of balance with a child who is more visual and unable to easily access the home language. Cue (2020) proposed adding in the Deaf Child as a separate system to address this balance. Here we present a more traditional systems approach and then a modified one that requires adjustments within the family and advocacy among the traditional systems. For example, recent research (Clark et al., 2020; Lillo Martin et al., 2014’ Pichler et al., 2016) has found that a bimodal (auditory and visual) bilingual approach (ASL and English) leads to more effective language acquisition, with or without the use of hearing technologies. The objectives of this presentation are to discuss two parallel systems—one that tries to focus on only an audiological approach and the other that includes both auditory and visual languages—and suggest how to help parents provide an ecological niche that has been found to foster better language acquisition as well as positive social emotional development. Recommendations include starting with the concept of baby signs that are commonly accepted by hearing parents to develop effective attentional systems and attachment to caregivers through reciprocal and contingent interactions between the child, family and other interacting environmental niches impacting a deaf infant/child.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to explain how an ecological systems framework can be applied to understand and support the experiences of families raising a deaf child.
12:00 – 12:15 – Room 2
Presenter: Kaitesi Mukara
From Zero to Hero: Current status of Ear and Hearing Care in Rwanda – Challenges, opportunities and lessons learnt
The World Health Organization (WHO) currently estimates that over 5.5% of the world’s population has disabling hearing loss today, 80% of them living in low- and middle-income countries. Projections show that 54 million people will have disabling hearing loss in Africa by 2030, increasing to 97 million by 2050. The cost and impact of unaddressed hearing loss is huge on economies and agonizing on those affected. The status report on ear and hearing care (EHC) in the WHO Africa region highlights gaps in provision of EHC services. If these gaps remain unaddressed, the scourge of hearing loss and deafness will continue to ravage those affected, yet up to 50% of causes of hearing loss are preventable. Rwanda, a small resource constrained country with 14 million inhabitants, of which 45% are below 18 while 3.3% are above 65 years of age is no different. Lack of awareness among policy makers and the population at large, shortage of human resource in EHC, poor infrastructure and misperceptions about ear and hearing conditions continues to delay achieving prevention of hearing loss and deafness. Moreover, the high cost of hearing aids, cochlear implants and other implantable devices impedes (re)habilitation of those affected. Up until 2007, the only EHC cadre were 3 ENT surgeons, no hearing aids services, EHC was overtly deemed “not a priority” and EHC work was left at the mercy of occasional donors. Today, Rwanda has multiple centres where government-funded EHC services are provided, and majority of the community EHC initiatives are government led. We highlight challenges faced, barriers surmounted, and lessons learnt, in a bid to improve EHC in Rwanda and demonstrate that persistence, sustained advocacy, strategic partnerships and aligning available resources to address causes of hearing loss and their impact, can accelerate transformation of EHC in resource limited settings.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze the current status of ear and hearing care in Rwanda, highlighting key challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned for strengthening services.
12:15 – 12:30 Room 2
Presenter: Khomotjo Kgare
We walk for our children’s health”: Parental perspectives on a rural clinic-based newborn hearing programme
“We walk for our children’s health”: Parental perspectives on a rural clinic-based newborn hearing programme Khomotjo. S. Kgare1, Karin Joubert2 1 Department of Natural and Rehabilitative Sciences, University of Fort Hare, South Africa 2Audiology Department, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa Universal newborn hearing screening at community-based primary health care clinics has been suggested to ensure access to early hearing detection services. Parental feedback on the effectiveness and quality of these services is essential for improving the delivery service. This presentation will focus on parental perspectives and experiences regarding the effectiveness of a rural clinic-based newborn hearing screening programme implemented in the Moutse area of the Limpopo province, South Africa. The importance of patient feedback in the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of health services as well as the role of public-private partnerships in addressing barriers to health care services will be highlighted. Keywords: Newborn hearing screening, Early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI), rural health, parental perspectives, low-resource settings, South Africa
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze parental perspectives on accessing a rural clinic-based newborn hearing programme and discuss implications for improving family-centered care and service delivery.
Session 4: 75 mins = 1 PDH’s
14::30 – 14:45 Room 1
Presenter: Fernando Rengifo Caicedo
The Importance of Cultural Competency in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
The outcome of this research is to develop a practical plan to build cultural competence in the professions of Audiology and Speech Pathology. During the development of this plan, there is an intention to involve several key stakeholders. In general, this paper aims to report rationale and detailed steps in building cultural competence in the professions of Audiology and Speech Pathology. The steps reported should be applicable to clinicians, public health and educational programs and services, and private industry related to communicative sciences and disorders. This research will discuss the bilingual Latino child and the effects of a second language on the primary language spoken. A client’s cultural background can affect the effectiveness of communication therapy, so it is important to be aware of how clients from various cultural backgrounds typically interact with health and education systems. As the world is continuously becoming more globally involved, it is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the cultural differences in their clients. This will help improve the quality of healthcare and provide more satisfaction. Cultural issues in healthcare and how to overcome them are important topics to discuss. It is also important for speech pathologists and audiologists to understand how socioeconomic status impacts their clients’ ability to communicate. With a population that is becoming increasingly diverse, culturally competent services are the best approach to achieving effective healthcare. Failure to understand patients from differing cultures may result in more damage than good in treatment. Cultural sensitivity and competence are crucial in reducing disparities in health care, improving access to care and the quality of health care. To overcome the disparity of health care, there must be an understanding of what cultural competency is and a desire to achieve it. Cultural competency enables healthcare providers to deliver services that are respectful of and responsive to the health beliefs, practices, and the cultural and linguistic needs of diverse patients. It also has the potential to reduce diagnostic errors and inadequate treatments which can result from a breakdown in communication between the provider and the patient. Patients from different cultures process information, make decisions, and cope with illnesses in diverse ways. An audiologist or speech pathologist needs to be able to understand the different cultures and individuals in order to understand the needs of the patient. By understanding the culture and the patient, it can assist in the diagnosis and the treatment of the individual.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss the role of cultural competency in audiology and speech-language pathology and identify strategies to provide more inclusive and effective care across diverse populations.
14:45 – 1500 Room 1
Presenter: Jacqueline Drexler
Leveraging Hearing Aid Data to Strengthen Pediatric Fittings: A Complementary Strategy for Capacity Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Early access to high-quality hearing aid fittings is essential for auditory, language, and cognitive development of children with hearing loss. Hear the World Foundation (HTWF) is dedicated to expanding access to pediatric audiology services in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and recognizes that providing hearing technology alone is not enough for successful outcomes for children with hearing loss. Access to trained professionals remains limited, with fewer than one audiologist per million people in many LMICs (World Health Organization, 2021). To address these gaps, HTWF’s approach combines the donation of hearing technology, equipment and financial resources with a comprehensive capacity development offering, including clinical training, mentorship, and system strengthening. In 2024-2025, HTWF supported partners in LMICs to deliver over 110,000 hearing screenings and 5,168 hearing aid fittings for children. In addition, HTWF enabled audiological training for 4,978 professionals, to improve services. In this presentation, we share how hearing aid data serves as a complementary tool within HTWF’s capacity development strategy. By analyzing real-world data, such as device usage patterns, datalogging trends, and programming adjustments, we are able to objectively identify clinical skill gaps and tailor training initiatives to the needs of local providers. Insights from technology data, such as underutilization of pediatric-specific features, inconsistent fitting practices, or low usage rates, inform continuous improvements to training programs and mentoring efforts. Drawing on case examples from multiple LMIC settings, we demonstrate how integrating data-driven insights enhances the impact of training methods, supports sustainable capacity development, and strengthens local pediatric audiology services. We also address ethical considerations related to data usage, patient confidentiality, and sustainability planning. By combining hearing technology donations with data-informed capacity development, HTWF aims to close critical service gaps, support professional growth among local clinicians, and contribute to better developmental outcomes for children with hearing loss worldwide.
Disclosures:
Dr. Drexler receives a salary from Sonova AG/Hear the World Foundation.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate how real-world hearing aid data can be leveraged to improve pediatric fittings and support capacity development in low- and middle-income countries.
15:00 – 15:15 – Room 1
Presenter: Janine Marriah Dela Cruz
Clinical Otologic Profile, Awareness, Perceptions, and Literacy on Hearing Health Among Employees in A Tertiary Hospital in the Philippines
Without epidemiologic data on the prevalence of hearing loss and otologic diseases, initiatives regarding hearing loss prevention and management are unlikely to take place and efforts that are made may be misaligned to the needs of the population. The few epidemiological studies on hearing loss published in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) have shown that there is a high prevalence of hearing loss, associated with preventable or treatable etiologies. This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hearing loss and otologic diseases and to establish the awareness, knowledge, and literacy towards hearing care among University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital employees. Method: A non-probability sampling design (voluntary sampling) was used in this study. This study included two hundred thirty five employees regardless of contract-type of the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital. Personnel that were from contracted-out agencies were excluded. The participants were interviewed with a pretested questionnaire adapted from Carlson et al. (2022) to assess the knowledge, awareness, and prioritization of hearing health. Otoscopic assessment was done and hearing was evaluated using pure tone audiometry (PTA). Results: The prevalence of mild or worse hearing loss across the whole sample was 51.5%, with 5.5% having disabling hearing loss. Whereas the majority of respondents knew the normal range for vision and blood pressure, only 14.5% reported knowing the “normal” hearing level. Despite more than one fourth of the employees having a subjective complaint of hearing loss, hearing health was a low priority for the respondents when compared to other health conditions and life activities. Majority would go to their healthcare providers for information about hearing loss but 71.9% has never discussed their hearing with a doctor in the past 10 years. Furthermore, the most commonly cited reasons for not having their hearing evaluated were: not experiencing hearing loss and not having their physician recommend a hearing evaluation. Majority of the respondents strongly acknowledge the potential impacts of hearing loss on their safety, quality of life, and overall health and were aware that it is treatable and preventable. However, there is limited awareness on the long-term negative health sequelae of hearing loss. Conclusion: Hearing health was a low priority for the respondents despite the strong awareness of the potential impacts of hearing loss on their safety, quality of life, and overall health. The population’s lack of appreciation of the long-term health sequelae of untreated hearing loss should be addressed. Concerted efforts to improve patient’s understanding of hearing health and their healthcare providers’ effort to discuss and evaluate hearing should be improved.
Disclosures:
Dr. Dela Cruz receives a salary from Philippine General Hospital.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the clinical otologic profile, awareness, perceptions, and hearing health literacy of employees in a tertiary hospital in the Philippines, and discuss their implications for workplace hearing conservation programs.
15:15 – 15:30 Room 1
Presenter by Kalishia Naidu
Author: S Moodley
Gaming and digital technology in healthcare training: A review of studies in African countries.
The integration of gaming and digital technology in healthcare training has gained momentum, especially post-COVID-19, transforming traditional teaching methods. This shift has made learning more interactive, engaging, and effective, particularly in higher education. Technologies such as gamification, virtual reality (VR), and serious games have enhanced skill development and provided virtual environments for practical experiences. Aims: This scoping review aims to identify and collate published studies related to the use of digital gaming and technology in healthcare training in African countries. The goal is to showcase how these technologies are being utilized and to highlight the strengths and contributions of African research to global healthcare knowledge. Methods: The review follows the Arksey and O’Malley framework for scoping reviews, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in May 2025 across multiple databases, including Ebscohost and Scopus. Search terms encompassed various digital technologies and healthcare training contexts within African countries. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in 26 articles for analysis. Results: The analysis revealed a growing interest in gaming and digital technology in healthcare training, with a significant increase in studies post-2021. The majority of studies were empirical (77%), focusing on the development and testing of games and digital technology. The studies covered a range of healthcare disciplines and technologies, with notable contributions from South Africa. Key areas of focus included disease management, mental health, neonatal care, and surgical training, utilizing technologies such as VR, serious games, and mobile apps. Conclusion: The review highlights the potential of digital gaming and technology to revolutionize healthcare training in Africa. It underscores the importance of recognizing and advancing African research contributions, advocating for improved communication and collaboration across languages and cultures. The findings suggest that these technologies can enhance healthcare education and practice, providing valuable insights for future research and development.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to summarize evidence from studies on the use of gaming and digital technology in healthcare training in African countries and identify opportunities and challenges for future implementation.
15:30 – 15:45 Room 1
Presenter: Nancy Maina
Perceptions of Deaf Children and Their Parents on Spiritual Nurture Experiences at Church: A Case of Lugha Ishara Centre, Nairobi County
Deaf children have a right to spiritual nurture. Article 14 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The church in Kenya is lagging in disability inclusion matters as Deaf children’s participation in Sunday school is almost nonexistent. This phenomenological study examined the perceptions of Deaf children and their parents on spiritual nurture experiences at church. The study sought to establish the type of spiritual nurture programs offered to Deaf children at church, investigate Deaf children’s perceptions of the spiritual nurture experiences at church, and, finally, explored the perceptions of parents of Deaf children as congregants on the Deaf children’s spiritual nurture experiences at church. The theories that guided the study were John Westerhoff’s faith development and Mark Oliver’s social model of disability. The research design applied in the study was interpretive phenomenology, and respondents were purposively selected so as to allow for the homogeneity of the sample. Data collection tools included an in-depth interview guide with six parents and a focus group discussion guide with seven children aged 7-12 years. Data was analyzed in accordance with an interpretive phenomenology analysis (IPA) methodology by use of QSR International NVivo, version 11, software application. The key findings of the study evidenced that two types of church programs were available: integrated and separate. The study revealed that both parents and Deaf children had positive and negative experiences at church. The positive perceptions included family support with interpretation, engagement in church activities, strong relationships by having friends in church; availability of sign language interpreters, and innovative teaching styles. The negative experiences included an unfriendly environment, lack of involvement in activities, lack of a sign language teacher, stigma, and no learning experiences. This study recommends that churches redesign and deliver spiritual nurture programs in collaboration with children and their parent.
Disclosures:
Presenter has not yet reported on financial or non-financial relationship. ASHA CEU credits are not available for this lecture
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to examine the perceptions of deaf children and their parents regarding spiritual nurture experiences in a church setting, based on a case study from the Lugha Ishara Centre in Nairobi County.
Session 5: 75 mins = 1 PDH
14:30 – 14:45 – Room 2
Presenter: Norberto Martinez
Starkey Hearing Foundation: WFA Community Based Hearing Health Care Model
Starkey Hearing Foundation(SHF) has delivered nearly 3M hearing aids to people around the globe through international hearing missions,in more than 100 countries providing training and education to local professionals in hearing health care. In the Phillipines, we have served around 80k patients all over the country. The objective are: 1.To describe the WFA Community – Based Hearing Health Care Model, 2. To enumerate the services offered and the number of people served 3. To elaborate on the after care service Method: Patients were recruited by the local health workers and were registered through a date base. Site inspection of the mission venue and orientation of the local volunteers were conducted. Hearing Aid Mission is done for 2-3 days. After care is scheduled 1 month after the initial fitting for trouble shouting and fine tuning . Follow up with the Starkey Team is made as the need arises. Results: A total of 39,438 patients served and 37,504 have been fitted with hearing aids(70,473 BTEs, 81 body worn and 50 bone conductors fitted). 168,552 type 13 and 114,877type 675 baterries were distributed. 47,093 Patients attended the 89,033 after care sessions administered all over the country. Conclusion: The recipients were very satisfied with the free hearing aid and batteries which were given for free together with the after care services that they receive after the mission. SHF is hoping to expanded its services to the rest of the Asean Region. Keywords: Starkey Hearing Foundation, Wide Field Audibility, hearing aid mission.
Disclosures:
Dr. Martinez acts as a country advisor and board member for Starkey Hearing Foundation
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the Starkey Hearing Foundation’s WFA community-based hearing health care model and evaluate its potential for improving access to hearing services in underserved populations.
14:45 – 15:00 Room 2
Presenter: Patrick BALUNGWE BIRINDWA
Comparative study of the medical and surgical management of serious otitis media at the provincial general referral hospital of Bukavu in the DRC
Serous otitis media is characterized by an accumulation of non-purulent effusion in the middle ear. Its high prevalence and impact on health make it a serious public health problem worldwide, and particularly in Africa. Its prevalence increases progressively with age. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, few data are available on estimates of the prevalence of seromucosal otitis and its evolution according to management, hence the aim of this study, to compare medical and surgical management in the evolution of patients followed for seromucosal otitis. Materials and method : This is a descriptive cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Otolaryngology Department of the Bukavu Provincial General Referral Hospital over a period of 9 years and 7 months, including patients of all ages with a confirmed diagnosis of serous or seromucous otitis media, who had received medical or surgical treatment. Data were collected and analyzed using R software version 4.4.1. In all analyses, the statistical significance threshold was 5%. Results : Females were most affected (52.05%). The median age of patients was 8 years. The majority of patients (82.2%) had a hearing impairment (p = 0.002). Type B tympanometry was more common in patients who had undergone surgical treatment. Progression was significantly associated with the type of treatment received. Serous otitis resolved in 95% of surgically treated patients. Persistence was noted in 19.2% of cases, particularly in patients who had received medical treatment (p<0.001). Control audiometry was normal on the right and left in 95% of surgically treated patients versus 3.03% of medically treated patients (p<0.001). Conclusion : Seromucosal otitis is a serious public health problem worldwide, with children under school age being the most affected. The condition remains under-diagnosed, particularly in low-resource countries. Surgical treatment is the treatment of choice for the cure of serous otitis.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to compare the outcomes of medical versus surgical management of serious otitis media at a provincial general referral hospital in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo.
15:00 – 15:15 Room 2
Presenter: Carlos Diego Rozul
Current Status of Hearing and Mental Health Systems for Older Adults in the Philippines: A Scoping Review
To determine the status of the hearing and mental health system for older adults in the Philippines following the World Health Organization’s six health system building blocks. Methods: The study utilized the Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews to ensure a systematic and transparent approach in the review of grey and published literature from five online databases written in English, conducted in the Philippines involving Filipino older adults (aged 60 years and older) completed/published between January 2015 to December 2024. The search was conducted from January 4, 2025-February 28, 2025 Results and Conclusions: The scoping review showed that while there are systems in place to address the infectious and lifestyle health concerns of older adults in the Philippines, there are limited number of studies and initiatives that focus on the hearing and mental health, with most of them being on a local barangay or center based with no specified national program to address these concerns. Most notably there is a lack of health human resource, health financing, and health information systems that are dedicated to these aspects of older Filipinos’ health.
Disclosures:
Carlos Diego Rozul receives a consulting fee and is a co-investigator for contracted research by the Phillippine Government
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to summarize the current status of hearing and mental health systems for older adults in the Philippines and identify gaps to guide future research, policy, and service development.
15:15 – 15:30 Room 2
Presenter:Jane Lee
Strengthening Mental Health Competencies in Health Practitioners: Addressing the Needs of People with Hearing Loss
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to identify key mental health competencies needed by health practitioners to effectively address the unique needs of people with hearing loss.
Presenter: Mary Ponifasio
Community-Based Outreach for Ear and Hearing Care in Papua New Guinea: Strategies for Addressing Hearing Impairment through Intervention and Knowledge Management.
Introduction and context: Hearing loss is a growing public health challenge in Papua New Guinea (PNG), particularly in rural and remote communities where access to ear and hearing care is limited. Many children suffer from undiagnosed and untreated ear disease, contributing to long-term impacts on communication, education, and social participation. The WHO advocates for an Integrated People-Centered Ear and Hearing Care (IPC-EHC) approach to ensure equitable, coordinated, and effective care across the life course. This presentation discusses how knowledge management (KM) strategies and technology have been applied within an outreach program based at Goroka Hospital to improve service delivery, data use, and community impact. Key message: Integrating knowledge management into community-based ear and hearing care enables more effective implementation of IPC-EHC in low-resource settings, improving early diagnosis, prevention, and equitable access to services for vulnerable populations. Keywords: Hearing Loss, Ear Disease, Knowledge Management, Primary Health Care, Outreach Services, Telemedicine. Presentation content: This presentation will: • Highlight the growing burden of hearing loss in PNG and its impact on children and underserved populations. • Introduce the WHO IPC-EHC framework and its relevance to low- and middle-income countries. • Describe the Goroka Hospital outreach program’s strategy for screening, treatment, and health promotion in schools and communities. • Demonstrate how knowledge management practices, such as workforce training, community data collection, shared learning, and integration with primary care enhance service quality and sustainability. • Emphasize the importance of prevention, especially in addressing common causes of childhood hearing loss (e.g., otitis media, noise exposure, and infections). • Align the program outcomes with WHO’s goal to increase global ear and hearing care coverage by 20%. • Advocate for continued investment in hearing aids, integrated, knowledge-driven models to address ear and hearing health in resource-limited settings.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to explain the prevalence and socio-cultural impact of ear and hearing disorders in Papua New Guinea, identify barriers and opportunities for community-based outreach, and design intervention strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment of hearing impairment.
Session 6 – 60 mins = 1 PDH
15:45 – 16:00 Room 1
Presenter: King Chung
Co- authors Kara Combs & Ray Munguia-Vazquez
Comparison of OAE Amplitudes of Children in Cambodia and in the US
The WHO recommended hearing screening for children of all ages. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) are effective screening tools for childen’s hearing in the field because of their resistance to background noise. The purpose of this study was to compare the DPOAE amplitudes of children in Cambodia and those in the United States. As using DPOAEs for school screenings is much quicker than the conventional pure tone audiometry, the results will shed light on whether the same pass/fail criteria can be used to screen both populations. A total of ~450 children from Cambodia and ~450 children from the US between 4 and 18 years were administered otoscopy, tympanometry, distortion product DPOAEs at 6 frequencies from 1.5-6 kHz, and pure tone audiometry. Present DPOAEs are defined as those with a signal-to-noise ratio of +6 dB. The DPOAEs of children with: unremarkable otoscopy findings, Type A tympanogram, and pure tone thresholds within normal limits were included in the analysis. The DPOAEs of children with Tympanograms other than Type A were excluded because middle ear conditions can change the recorded DPOAE amplitudes and some may not be compensated by the test equipment (e.g., Type B tympanograms). Repeated measures ANOVA will be used to compare the DPOAE amplitudes across frequencies and post hoc tests will be used to compare the amplitude between Cambodian and US children. Implications for school screenings will be discussed.
Disclosures:
Dr. Chung receives a salary from MGH Institute of Health Professionals. Dr. Combs receives a salary from HCA HealthONE Rocky Mountain Children’s. She also receives a salary at Denver Health.
Dr. Chung has an active grant from NIDCD, USA.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to compare otoacoustic emission (OAE) amplitudes in children from Cambodia and the United States and discuss potential cultural, environmental, and clinical factors influencing the findings.
16:00 – 16:15 Room 1
Presenter: Debra Fried
Evolution of an NGO-based Audiology Program Partnership in Nicaragua
Mayflower Medical Outreach (MMO), a U.S.-based NGO founded in 2005, provides ENT and audiology services, educational opportunities for deaf students and strengthening of training in the fields of ENT medicine, audiology and deaf education in Nicaragua. One of the organization’s achievements in Nicaragua has been the establishment of an ENT/Audiology clinic in Hospital Victoria Motta in Jinotega, Nicaragua. The ENT/Audiology clinic serves a regional population of approximately one half million. The clinic was established within the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health (MINSA) hospital system as a joint project between MMO and MINSA and is fully operated by MINSA. The audiology clinic provides diagnostic audiological evaluations to patients of all ages and hearing aid dispensing services to the indigent population in this region. We discuss the historical and political influences that provided an environment for the development of an NGO-sponsored sustainable audiology program within the Nicaraguan public health system. A key factor in development was the implementation of a formalized audiometric technician training program, the first of its kind in Nicaragua and Central America. An International Humanitarian Hearing Aid Purchasing Program (IHHAPP) was created to address hearing aid cost and distribution in low resource countries. The joint venture program has provided substantial infrastructure and systemic changes within the MINSA system, all to the benefit of the local population. The partnership is dynamic and often inconsistent, demanding constant adaptation of program and participation. The challenge continues to demand communication and flexibility, always with the specific intention of cooperative allocation of resources and commitments. Success of the project has spawned additional progress in other aspects of hearing health care and deaf education in Nicaragua and other areas of Central America. We address the impact of the audiology program within MINSA and for the community and the take-aways for success, often seen as incremental changes. We also discuss the continuing challenges of the program, particularly the adaptation of new technology and the changing dynamics of our organization.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the development of an NGO-based audiology program partnership in Nicaragua and analyze lessons learned for building sustainable hearing care services in low-resource settings.
16:15 – 16:30 Room 1
Presenter: James Hall
A New Evidence-Based Approach for Hearing Screening of Preschool and School Children
Historically, clinical practice guidelines have recommended a pure tone technique for hearing screening of preschool and school age children (ASHA, 1997; AAA, 2011; WHO, 2021). Multiple serious limitations of pure tone hearing screening for this student population are well-documented. Hearing screening with a combination of objective auditory measures offers a feasible and effective alternative to pure tone hearing screening (Hall, 2016; Robler et al, 2023). Specifically, the application of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) plus tympanometry for hearing screening of children under the age 7 years circumvents each drawback associated with the pure tone technique. For children aged 7 years and older, pure tone hearing screening for test frequencies of 1000, 2000, 4000, and 6000 Hz is appropriate. This presentation consists of a practical discussion about the critical steps in developing and implementing an evidence-based efficient and effective hearing screening program for children of all ages. The session includes recommendations for hearing screening equipment and protocols, and a proven plan for training non-audiologist hearing screening personnel. The presentation concludes with a question/answer session.
Disclosures:
Dr. Hall receives a salary from University of Hawaii.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe a new evidence-based approach for hearing screening of preschool and school children and evaluate its advantages and implications for early detection and intervention.
16:30 – 16:45 Room 1
Presenter: Akulu Joviah
Development of an otology fellowship at Makerere University in Uganda. Building hearing healthcare capacity through local training and partnerships.
Development of an otology fellowship at Makerere University in Uganda. Building hearing healthcare capacity through local training and partnerships. Dr. Joviah Akulu, Dr. Justin Cottrell, Dr. Chris Ndoleriire, Dr. J. Thomas Roland Jr. The capacity within Uganda to deliver high quality care in otolaryngology continues to grow. A strong collaboration over 20 years between NYU Langone Health and Makerere University has helped foster an Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) residency training program which now serves to train the future of OHNS surgeons within the country. Its reputation has also served to attract promising medical trainees from surrounding countries in Africa who travel to train at Makerere University before traveling home to deliver care to patients. Morbidity and mortality from untreated otologic diseases such as cholesteatoma and complicated acute otitis media remains high. Many cases, with late-stage disease, have a complexity that can challenge general otolaryngologists to perform safely. As such, a fellowship in Otology has been developed to take the next step in care provision capacity within Uganda for subspecialty hearing healthcare. In this presentation, Dr. Joviah Akulu from Makerere University will outline the administrative, educational, and care delivery considerations necessary for implementation of a new complex otology fellowship within Uganda. The consideration and goals can be applied to other healthcare systems that may currently lack the experience and technological resources to deliver hearing healthcare locally within low-resource settings. A high-level operational overview will also be provided that listeners can use for program replication. The model facilitates complex training within Uganda through a partnership with NYU Langone Health, whereby educators travel to ensure surgical trainees are trained safely within the environment they will practice. In this way, practical challenges to care provision are identified early and safely to improve care quality, while also optimizing subsequent surgeon retention.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the development of an otology fellowship at Makerere University in Uganda and evaluate how local training and partnerships can strengthen hearing healthcare capacity.
Session 7: 60 mins = 1 PDH
15:45 – 16:00 Room 2
Presenter: Bilen Korra Gelaye
Infant Hearing Screening in Addis Ababa-Strengthening National Hearing Care
Problem Access to hearing testing and rehabilitation in Ethiopia is limited by societal beliefs and lack of information, which hinder infrastructure development. Current barriers include: 1. Underappreciation of the burden of hearing loss 2. Prioritization of funding towards other diseases 3. High cost and limited access to rehabilitative services 4. Nascent audiometric accreditation and remuneration systems Objectives: 1. Identify key barriers to implementing newborn hearing screening programs in low resource settings. 2. Describe strategies to improve institutional support and sustainability for early hearing detection and interruption. Intervention A pilot newborn hearing screening program was launched in four hospitals in Addis Ababa through collaboration with Hearing Ethiopia, Med EL, Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and PATH MEDICAL. Training sessions prepared professionals, mainly nurses, to perform the screening alongside their regular clinical duties. Infants who fail OAE screen are referred to a central diagnostic center. Prevalence data is being collected. Results Challenges have been 1. Low referral rates from non-ENT providers due to limited program awareness 2. Parental reluctance, often due to lack of understanding of hearing health 3. Equipment malfunctions that required overseas repairs, resulting in interruptions to the screening schedule Successes have been 1.The program is being positively received by staff and families who have engaged with it. 2. Institutional support is growing 3. Screening data collection is ongoing and includes prevalence estimates Future Directions 1. Prevalence data will be published and is expected to raise awareness among the public and healthcare providers. 2. Advocacy efforts will target the Health and Education Ministries to support audiology training, accreditation and rehabilitation services. Conclusion This initiative aligns with the WHO’s strategy to integrate ear and hearing care into national health systems and depends on sustainable collaboration.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze the implementation of infant hearing screening in Addis Ababa and discuss its role in strengthening national hearing care systems.
16:00 – 16:15 – Room 2
Presenter: NEKWU OKOLUGBO
Noise Induced Hearing Loss in Glass Factory Workers in Delta State Nigeria: An 8 year follow up
ABSTRACT Background: Noise induced hearing loss is a well known recognized hazard in factory workers. This is due to the fact that the level of noise in most factories exceed the WHO acceptable limits. This was an 8 year follow up study on glass factory workers to determine the effect of noise on their hearing status over that period. Materials and Methods: Audiometry was carried out on the factory workers using a diagnostic audiometer. This was repeated after 8 years. All the workers had their ears examined prior to Audiometry which was done in a quiet area in the factory clinic. Thereafter data was collected and analysed. Results: The subsequent screening showed that all the workers had increased threshold of hearing and the Prevalence rate of hearing impairment had increased from 9.1% to 40.8%. All workers admitted to intermittent use of personal protective devices (ear muffs/ear plugs) despite being counselled on their use 8 years earlier. Conclusion: Hearing Conservation measures should be instituted in factories. Pre-employment screening should be mandatory as well as annual audiological screening and the labour laws should be strengthened to ensure adequate compliance by industries. Key Words: Audiometry, Factory Workers, Hearing Impairment, Noise, Screening.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the prevalence and progression of noise-induced hearing loss among glass factory workers in Delta State, Nigeria, over an 8-year follow-up period and discuss implications for occupational hearing conservation.
16:15 – 16:30 Room 2
Presenter: Shade Kirjava
Co-authors: Mehwish Nisar & Sam Faulkner
Evaluating Colorism in Hearing Aid and Cochlear Implant Design in the United States Market: A 20-Year Longitudinal Analysis
This study aimed to evaluate the availability of hearing prosthetics across a range of skin tones over time and by brand. This study used a longitudinal observational design to evaluate the availability of bone conduction hearing aids, cochlear implant processors, and prescription behind-the-ear style air conduction hearing aids across the spectrum of possible human skin colors. Devices that were sold in the USA from 2005 through 2024 were included. Each color that each device was manufactured in was compared to several scales of human skin tone using a validated color difference formula. 236 hearing prosthetics were evaluated in this study. Hearing prosthetics were more likely to include models in the moderate range of human skin tones, with fewer devices being available at the higher and lower ends of the skin tone scales corresponding to lighter and darker skin tones. Complex patterns emerged when evaluating results over time, with each brand producing hearing prosthetics having a unique trajectory in the availability of skin color devices over time. These results provide evidence that the United States hearing prosthetic market may expand by better meeting the preferences of individuals with hearing loss.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate trends in hearing aid and cochlear implant design in the U.S. market over the past 20 years and analyze how issues of colorism affect device accessibility, usability, and inclusivity.
16:30 – 16:45
Presenter: Evette Ronner
Co-authors: Megan Thompson & Alison Packer
CMV Testing for Infants Who Failed Newborn Hearing Screen: Considerations for Care of High-Risk Populations in Urban Settings
BACKGROUND: Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading non-genetic cause of congenital hearing loss in the United States.(1) At our safety-net hospital, 75% of patients come from under-resourced backgrounds.(2) Some studies report higher CMV seroprevalence among infants with lower socioeconomic status.(3,4) Timely identification of congenital CMV infection is critical to provide needed services to affected infants. OBJECTIVE: Retrospectively review CMV testing among infants with a failed newborn hearing screen (NHS) and evaluate barriers to timely testing. METHODS: Retrospective chart review was performed for infants born at our institution between 2020-2023 with a failed NHS. All infants are screened for hearing loss prior to discharge. Timely CMV testing was defined as having loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) testing before 21 days old. Birth history, medical comorbidities, demographics, and length of hospital stay were assessed. RESULTS: 324 infants failed the NHS. 269 (83%) underwent timely CMV testing; 5 (1.9%) were positive. Among the remaining 55 (17%) infants not tested, 30 (55%) had one or more major medical comorbidity, 26 (47%) came from non-English speaking households, and 14 (25%) had documented housing insecurity. Infants who did not undergo timely CMV testing were significantly more likely to have a low birth weight, preterm birth, NICU admission, cesarean section delivery, and increased length of hospital stay (P < 0.001). Fifteen completed late testing, all of which were negative. DISCUSSION: In our sample, a sizable proportion of infants with a failed NHS did not undergo timely CMV testing. Our results suggest that medically complex infants at our safety-net hospital may be less likely to undergo timely testing, placing this vulnerable population at risk of sequelae from undiagnosed CMV. Further investigation is needed to standardize CMV testing at our hospital and identify barriers to timely testing, particularly among medically complex infants in the NICU.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the role of CMV testing for infants who fail newborn hearing screening and discuss key considerations for managing high-risk populations in urban settings.
Saturday 25 October
08:30 – 09:30 Room1 – Session 8 – 105 mins – 1.5 PDH,s
Presenter: Dr. Kee B Park
Bridging research with policy and implementation to promote global health priorities in low resource communities and countries.
Disclosures:
Dr. Park has ownership interest and membership on an advisory committee at Hoth Intelligence.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to examine strategies for translating research into policy and implementation to advance global health priorities in low-resource communities and countries.
09:30: 0945 Room 1
Presenter: King Chung
CGHH Best Practices
Disclosures:
Dr. Chung receives a salary from MGH Institute of Health Professionals.
Dr. Chung has an active grant from NIDCD, USA.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to identify and apply best practices from the Collaborative Group for Global Hearing Health (CGHH) to strengthen ear and hearing care in diverse settings.
M 09:45 – 10:15
Presenter: Dr Diego Santana-Hernández
Sensory impairments as platform for EHC: CBM & WHA Resolution 2025
Disclosures:
Dr. Santana Hernandez receives a salary from CBM Chrisoffel Blindes Mission
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss how sensory impairments can serve as a platform for advancing ear and hearing care (EHC) within the context of CBM initiatives and the WHO/WHA Resolution 2025.
Session: 9 – 90 Mins = 1.5 PDH’s
11:00 – 11:15 Room 1
Presenter: Dr Amit Sachdeva
Strengthening Primary Ear and Hearing Care in Rural Himachal Pradesh: A Community-Based Hearing Health Initiative in Shimla, India
In India, over 63 million people suffer from significant auditory impairment, with rural populations facing profound barriers to prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation. Shimla, a hilly district in Himachal Pradesh, is characterized by sparse health infrastructure and limited audiological services. This study assessed the effectiveness of a primary health-integrated, community-led hearing care model designed to improve early detection and referral pathways in underserved rural areas. Materials & Methods: Between March and November 2024, a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted across five gram panchayats in Mashobra block, Shimla district. A total of 2,347 residents aged 5–75 years were screened by 20 Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) trained in a 4-day module covering ear anatomy, otoscopy, red flag symptoms, and the use of hearWHO and Shoebox Audiometry mobile screening tools. Individuals with suspected hearing loss were referred to ENT specialists at Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla. Baseline and follow-up community knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) surveys were administered to 250 households using a validated 22-item instrument. Results: Out of 2,347 individuals screened, 412 (17.6%) had confirmed hearing impairment; 29% conductive, 41% sensorineural, and 30% mixed or indeterminate etiology. Impactful causes included untreated otitis media (33%), cerumen impaction (26%), and age-related presbycusis (22%). Referral adherence reached 81.5%, with 123 patients receiving assistive devices or medical/surgical care. Post-intervention KAP scores improved significantly (mean pre: 42.6%, post: 78.3%; p < 0.001), indicating enhanced community awareness and reduced stigma. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the feasibility and impact of task-sharing ear and hearing care with frontline health workers in low-resource, high-need rural areas. Scalable, mobile-enabled strategies offer a sustainable solution to bridge service gaps in India and similar LMIC settings. Keywords: Rural hearing care, community health workers, Shimla, mobile audiometry, WHO hearWHO, low-resource settings, ear health, India.
Disclosures:
Dr. Sachdeva receives a salary from Indira Gandhi Medical College.
Dr. Sachdeva participates in awareness activities through Madad Global.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze the implementation of a community-based primary ear and hearing care initiative in rural Himachal Pradesh and discuss its implications for strengthening hearing health services in underserved areas.
11:15 – 11:30 Room 1
Presenter: Venkatesh Uthirapathy
Regional and Sociodemographic Disparities in Hearing Difficulty Among Older Adults in India: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of 72,250 Participants from LASI Wave 1
Hearing impairment is an under-recognized public health challenge in aging populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Understanding the sociodemographic and regional patterns of hearing difficulty is crucial for guiding equitable hearing care interventions in India. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from Wave 1 of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI, 2017–18), including 72,250 individuals aged 45 and above. Hearing difficulty was self-reported and categorized as no difficulty, single-ear difficulty, or both-ear difficulty. We used multinomial logistic regression to identify determinants of hearing difficulty and applied Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition to quantify regional disparities between low- and high-prevalence states. Results: The prevalence of hearing difficulty ranged from 3.7% in low-prevalence states to 17.9% in high-prevalence states. Advanced age, unemployment, and lower educational attainment were significantly associated with greater risk. Women had higher odds of single-ear difficulty but lower odds for both-ear difficulty compared to men (RRR = 0.78, p < 0.001). Decomposition analysis revealed that only 11% of the regional disparity was explained by population characteristics, while 95% was attributed to differential effects of these characteristics—suggesting strong contextual and structural influences. Not being currently employed (p = 0.019), a history of child labor (p = 0.001), and religious or tribal affiliation significantly contributed to the disparity. Conclusion: This study highlights significant and largely unexplained regional inequalities in hearing difficulty among older adults in India. Addressing structural determinants and strengthening hearing care services—especially in high-burden regions—is critical for achieving hearing health equity in low-resource settings.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate regional and sociodemographic disparities in hearing difficulty among older adults in India using data from LASI Wave 1, and discuss implications for equitable hearing health policy and service delivery.
11:30 – 11:45 Room 1
Presenter: Suzanne Purdy
Community-based initiatives for improving ear and hearing healthcare equity for Māori and Pacific children and their families in Aotearoa New Zealand
Unaddressed hearing loss and middle ear problems have lifelong implications for speech and language development, social skills, education, and future employment. In Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) there are structural and interpersonal factors contributing to inequalities in ear and hearing health outcomes (Taylor et al., 2025). Māori and Pacific children experience treatment delays after a hearing loss diagnosis resulting from newborn hearing screening and are less likely to receive hearing screening at 4 years (Oliver et al., 2022) and timely treatment for otitis media with effusion (McCallum et al., 2015). Our research focused on hearing health pathways was prompted by an ORL/Audiology service recall of children who received a faulty newborn hearing screening. This recall revealed significant numbers of preschool-aged children with undetected hearing loss who would not otherwise have been identified, predominantly due to middle ear disease, although the recall also revealed cases of late-identified permanent sensorineural hearing loss (Dickinson et al., 2018). Research and clinical initiatives since then have investigated community-based solutions to gaps in screening and diagnostic services between birth and 4 years. We have demonstrated the feasibility of a brief hearing screening protocol for 3-year-olds in a randomized sample of early learning centers (Su et al., 2021). In a follow-up study (Taylor et al., 2025), interviews with families and a meeting with community and clinical stakeholders highlighted barriers, facilitators, and factors that would make a good ear and hearing health system. Increased accessibility of culturally safe ear and hearing healthcare requires a shift away from the overburdened public health system towards community-based initiatives to diversify and streamline screening, diagnosis, and treatment pathways. Findings from interviews with education support staff in Pacific early childhood centers and families will be presented, alongside plans for our wider community-based project addressing accessibility and equity concerns for ear and hearing healthcare.
Disclosures:
Dr. Purdy receives a salary and grants from The University of Auckland.
Dr. Purdy serves as a board member in an advisory role for The Hearing House Cochlear Implant Programme.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze community-based initiatives aimed at improving ear and hearing healthcare equity for Māori and Pacific children and their families in Aotearoa New Zealand, and discuss their impact on culturally responsive care.
11:45 – 12:00 Room 1
Presenter: Ashwin Reddy
Assessing the hearing health of brick kiln workers in Bhaktapur, Nepal
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to assess the hearing health status of brick kiln workers in Bhaktapur, Nepal, and discuss the occupational and public health implications for prevention and intervention.
12:00 – 12:15 Room1
Presenter: Olawale Ogundiran
Presbycusis as a hidden contributor to fall among older adults with osteoarthritis
Falls remain the leading cause of non-fatal injuries among geriatric populations commonly resulting to head injuries, strains, cuts, lacerations, bruises, muscle tears, ligament damage, herniated discs and other musculoskeletal injuries. As aging sets in, physiological changes such as presbaycusis and osteoarthritis (OA) are frequently encountered by older people. Presbyacusis and OA are both degenerative disorders. Presbyacusis is caused by wear and tear of auditory structures. Similarly, OA results from the wear and tear of joint cartilage. Hearing loss is correlated with the occurrence of falls in older adults1. Studies show that auditory information can be integrated with vestibular, somatosensory, and visual signals to improve balance, orientation, and gait2. Current epidemiological evidence supports a strong association between hearing loss and increased fall risk and it has been reported that older adults with hearing loss have a 1.49 fold greater risk of falling3. This underscores the need for integrated fall prevention approaches that consider auditory health. Prompt and effective management of hearing loss can improve balance6,7, which implies that the evaluation of hearing loss should be a targeted component of fall prevention among older adults8. This present study therefore, aimed at finding out the association between hearing loss, osteoarthritis and fall among older adults. In addition, it aimed at investigating the variable that contributes more between hearing loss and osteoarthritis to the dependent variable (fall). Methods – This a retrospective study conducted to investigate the association between osteoarthritis and fall among older adults with hearing loss (presbyacusis). Medical records of all the patients aged 65 years and above consulting ENT out-patient clinics in the last five years in selected teaching hospitals in Nigeria were retrieved. Seven hundred and twenty-seven (727) older adults met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of data was done with percentages, chi-square and regression analysis. Results – Out of 727 participants, 407 (48.7%) were males while the remaining 320 (38.3%) were females. Also, 546 (75.1) presented with osteoarthritis while the remaining 181 (24.9%) did not. 599 (82.4%) had history of fall at one time or the other while the remaining 128 (17.6) had no history of fall at all. The study revealed a prevalent of moderately-severe sensorineural hearing loss bilaterally. In addition, there was significant association between hearing loss and fall among older adults with hearing loss bilaterally: right ears – X2=88.749, Df=5, p <0.001. left ears – X2=134.83, Df=5, p <0.001. On the contrary, there was no significant association between osteoarthritis and fall among older adults with hearing loss bilaterally: right ears – X2=1.940, Df=5, p = 0.851. left ears – X2=3.348, Df=5, p = 0.657. However, there was a joint prediction but no independent prediction of fall in both ears, ranking hearing loss at the first position, and distantly followed by osteoarthritis. Conclusion – Hearing loss due to old age (Presybacusis) is a hidden but significant contributor to fall among older adults, particularly when there is synergistic interaction with other predictor variables like osteoarthritis. The aging population in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) faces significant barriers in both health services and social support, creating a twofold burden on their well-being. However, through a combination of health care, audiological care, technological support, environmental adaptations, interdisciplinary collaboration and psychosocial support, the burden of presbyacusis, osteoarthritis and falls in the geriatric population can be significantly reduced.
Disclosures:
Dr. Ogundiran receives a salary from University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ghana
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to explain how presbycusis may act as a hidden contributor to falls among older adults with osteoarthritis and discuss implications for comprehensive geriatric assessment and care.
12:15 – 12:30 Room 1
Presenter: Monik Mota
Hearing loss prevalence and associated factors in chronic kidney disease patients under conservative treatment in Brazil advocacy
Hearing loss is an increasingly condition seen in the population ¹. It is found with greater frequency in some specific groups such as elderly people, people with systemic arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus². Evidence suggests increased prevalence of hearing loss in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD)³, however studies in the brazilian population with CKD are scarce. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of hearing loss in a population of patients with chronic kidney disease non dyalitic and associated factors. Material and Methods: We used a convenience sample of patients with CKD (n = 159), aged 18 to 65 years in multidisciplinary healthcare service. The auditory acuity was assessed by pure-tone audiometry threshold and by the questionnaire WHO Ear and Hearing Disorders Survey Protocol for a Population-Based Survey of Prevalence and Causes of Deafness and Hearing Impairment and other Ear Diseases translated and validated into Portuguese. We collected demographic and clinical data, also carried out otoscopy, and dosage of biochemical markers and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL 6, IL-10, IL-17. Results: In the analyses we checked the prevalence of 25,16% of hearing loss among the participants. In our study we did not find any association between the progression of the stages of CKD and the increase of the prevalence of hearing impairment, nor with its severity. The blood markers analyses, isolated or in association to CKD stages, were not able to establish a relation between the progression of stage of chronic kidney disease and hearing loss. Conclusions: The prevalence of hearing loss in this study is 25,16%. It is recommended that strategies be implemented for the prevention and reversal of this situation in this target group.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the prevalence of hearing loss and its associated factors in chronic kidney disease patients under conservative treatment in Brazil, and discuss advocacy strategies to integrate hearing health into chronic disease care.
Session 10: 90 mins = 1 PDH – 1 presenter failed to submit a discloure
11:00 – 11:15 – Room 2
Presenter: Davis Banturaki
Rethinking Hearing Technology Innovation: Bridging Global Disparities in Hearing Care Access
Abstract About 1.57 billion people globally are affected by hearing loss. Over 400 million of those affected experience moderate or severe impairment. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to 2.5 billion with 700 million requiring rehabilitation. The burden is increasing in both age-related and children and adolescents groups, with 97.83 million children and adolescents facing hearing loss challenges contributing to 3.91 million years lived with disability, particularly in LMICs. While HIC benefit from the available early detection through newborn screening and access to hearing aids and cochlear implants, LMICs continue to face underdiagnosis and undertreatment due to limited healthcare infrastructure, trained professionals and economic constraints. Hearing assistive technologies have evolved through time with current digital hearing aids and cochlear implants with advanced features like noise reduction and multichannel systems respectively, adoption of even the basic hearing assistive devices remains very low especially in LMIC. This narrative review synthesized current literature to identify and categorize major barriers hindering the adoption of these technologies. The challenges identified were categorised into economic, systemic, social, and individual barriers. Economic barriers include; high costs, limited insurance, and stigma. Systemic barriers including inadequate referrals and professional shortages. Social factors especially stigma and low awareness limit device use, while individual concerns about sound quality and surgical risks hinder adoption. This review calls for an urgent, integrated action to overcome these barriers . Identified solutions include integrating hearing care into healthcare systems, subsidizing devices, and expanding public funding. Community-based care, user-centric device designs, and digital therapeutics can reduce stigma and improve accessibility. Scaling training for hearing care professionals and leveraging technologies like hearables and mHealth applications are critical to reducing global disparities in hearing care access and outcomes.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze how innovations in hearing technology can be reimagined to address global disparities in hearing care access and propose strategies for more equitable solutions.
11:15 – 11:30 Room 2
Presenter:Stefany Lazieh
Global Disparities in Otologic Surgical Equipment: Findings from A Global Cross-Sectional Survey
Otologic procedures are critical for addressing ear-related pathology and hearing loss, and these procedures depend on access to specialized surgical equipment. Despite the large global burden of otologic disease—particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)—little is known about the availability of otology-specific equipment [1,2]. This study presents a subanalysis of a global survey on otolaryngology infrastructure and equipment, aiming to characterize the relative availability of essential otologic equipment across World Bank income groups. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was developed to assess otolaryngologists’ perceptions of the availability of surgical equipment and ancillary services. Otolaryngologists reported the availability of specific otologic equipment—including otologic drills and burrs, otoendoscopes, tympanomastoidectomy equipment, and cochlear implants—using five-point Likert scales. Responses were stratified by World Bank income classification and analyzed using chi-square tests to assess differences between high-income countries (HICs) and LMICs. Results: Of 146 otolaryngologists surveyed, 77 (53%) were from LMICs, and all six WHO regions were represented. Access to otologic drills and burrs, otoendoscopes, and tympanomastoidectomy sets was significantly lower in LMICs (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001). These tools were reported as “always” available by 35–45% of LMIC respondents, compared to 55–65% of HIC respondents. Additionally, 20–30% of LMIC respondents reported this equipment as “never” available. The availability of cochlear implants also differed significantly (p < 0.001), with 58% of LMIC respondents reporting they were “never” available, compared to 25% of HIC respondents. Despite being more portable and cost-effective than microscopic setups [3], otoendoscopes were still unavailable to nearly one-third of LMIC respondents. Conclusion: This study highlights critical inequities in global otologic surgical infrastructure, which may limit access to key otologic care worldwide. Expanding access to affordable, scalable equipment and prioritizing equipment in national surgical plans could reduce treatable hearing loss in LMICs.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate global disparities in access to otologic surgical equipment based on findings from a cross-sectional survey and discuss their implications for surgical training and service delivery in low-resource settings.
11:30 – 11:45 Room 2
Presenter:Nadar Zalaquett
Comparison of Audiological and Vestibular Services across World Bank Income Groups
Access to audiological services and support for individuals with hearing loss varies widely between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). This study examines disparities in the availability of audiological service delivery and support services across World Bank income groups. Methods: Data were collected through an international, prospective, cross-sectional survey developed and distributed by the Global Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Initiative. The survey evaluated the availability of audiology, vestibular, innovative, and remote services across respondents. Statistical significance between groups was assessed using chi-square tests and p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 135 respondents were recorded, with 70 from HICs and 65 from LMICs. Significant disparities were observed between HICs and LMICs across nearly all categories. HICs were more likely to have newborn hearing screening (95.5% vs. 79.4%, p=0.005), national NHS programs (89.1% vs. 60.0%, p=0.001), and diagnostic tools such as ABR (87.1% vs. 64.6%, p=0.002) and high-frequency tympanometry (48.6% vs. 26.2%, p=0.007). Pediatric audiological assessments such as play audiometry and VRA were also significantly more common in HICs (91.4% vs. 61.5% and 88.6% vs. 50.8%, respectively; p<0.001). Remote audiology services, including tele-audiology (64.3% vs. 18.5%, p<0.001), remote programming, and counseling, were far more prevalent in HICs. In terms of hearing technology, HICs reported greater availability of programmable hearing aids (95.7% vs. 76.9%, p=0.001), custom molds, FM systems, and implantable devices. Support services followed a similar trend: HICs were significantly more likely to offer written instructions in local languages, speech therapy (92.9% vs. 64.6%, p<0.001), assistive listening devices (74.3% vs. 24.6%, p<0.001), and tinnitus support. Educational and family support were also markedly more accessible in HICs. Conclusion: There are substantial inequities in audiological and rehabilitative services between HICs and LMICs. Efforts to bridge these gaps are essential for achieving equitable hearing health care worldwide.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to compare the availability and scope of audiological and vestibular services across World Bank income groups and discuss implications for reducing global inequities in hearing and balance care.
11:45 – 12:00 Room 2
Presenter: Prasanta Poudyal
Validity of non-specialist-based screening of hearing loss using mobile technology-based audiology in tertiary care hospital Nepal
The prevalence of hearing loss is so huge that by 2050 over 900 million people (1 in every 10) will have disabling hearing loss. The lack of enough specialist for diagnosing hearing loss and ear disease in Nepal and available limited specialist to go rural Nepal for work has increased the burden of hearing loss. The use of mobile technology can be a benchmark initiative to address the burden of hearing loss. Hence, this study aims to identify accuracy of hearing threshold by community health worker using mobile technology-based audiology. Materials and methods: It was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at a tertiary level ENT hospital (Hospital for Children, Eye, ENT and Rehabilitation Services) in Bhaktapur, Nepal from 3rd March to 3rd June 2022. Hearing evaluation was initially be performed by trained Community ear health worker (CEHW) using heartest application followed by gold standard pure tone audiometry test using Audiometer MA 42. Hearing loss was defined as average Puretone above 25 dB HL as per WHO guideline. Results:The prevalence of hearing impairment among 132 participants with male (55.3%) and female (44.7%) using hearTest was 60.2% as compared to pure tone audiometry (45.5%). The positive predictive value of hearTest was 91.2% and negative predictive value (78.6%). The pearson correlation of hearing threshold between hearTest and pure tone audiogram was 0.55 which is statistically significant (p value <0.01). Conclusion and Recommendation: The accuracy of hearing threshold by community health worker using mobile technology-based audiology was 80.4%. The training period for community health worker could be increased to increase the accuracy. This technology can be used for the early screening of hearing loss in community as well as children in school setup in Nepal and aid for hearing loss survey amidst the lack of specialist.
Disclosures:
Dr. Poudyal receives a salary as a consultant from Hospital for Children, Eye, Ent, and Rehabilitation Services.
Dr. Poudyal is a life member of the B. P Eye Foundation.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to assess the validity of non-specialist-based hearing loss screening using mobile technology–based audiology in a tertiary care hospital in Nepal and discuss its potential for expanding access to ear and hearing care.
12:00 – 12:15 Room 2
Presenter: Olga Djoutsop Mbougo
Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Regional Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery Centers of Excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa
This study sought to estimate the cost-effectiveness of establishing regional otolaryngologic, head, and neck surgical (OHNS) Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in addressing this burden in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) . Methods This 10-year Markov model cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted using Amua. Ten health states were used to simulate transitions, and data were obtained from peer-reviewed and grey literature. A Monte Carlo simulation with a hypothetical cohort of 10,000 patients was used to estimate prevalence and societal cost in the CoE and no-CoE scenarios. A half-cycle correction was used, and a 3% discount rate was applied from the first cycle to account for the time preference of costs and benefits. Results While the number of healthy patients decreased from 8,475 to 6,298 (–25.7%) in the CoE scenario, the no-CoE scenario saw a sharper decline to 425 (–94.3%). Similar differences were noted in other health transition states (CoE vs. no CoE): post-treatment (882 [+848.4%] vs. 823 [+1186.0%]), complications (91 [+97.8%] vs. 439 [+1055.3%]), sequelae (280 [+182.8%] vs. 304 [+9.7%]), progressing condition (44 [–6.4%] vs. 132 [–42.9%]), and OHNS-related deaths (851 [+5985.7%] vs. 5,277 [+2619.1%]). The CoE strategy had total cumulative and total cumulative discounted costs of USD 10.41 million and USD 8.52 million, respectively. In contrast, the no-CoE strategy incurred USD 40.29 million and USD 32.72 million. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was USD –1.23 per DALY averted, indicating that the CoE strategy was both more effective and less costly. Conclusion Our model estimates that the adoption of a regional OHNS CoE strategy in SSA could result in significantly fewer deaths and complications while saving approximately USD 24.2 million in discounted cumulative expenditure over a ten-year period.
Disclosures:
Presenter has not yet reported on financial or non-financial relationship. ASHA CEU credits are not available for this lecture
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of establishing regional Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Centers of Excellence in Sub-Saharan Africa and discuss implications for health system planning and resource allocation.
12:15 – 12:30 Room 2
Presenter: Lekha S Nair
Evaluating Training Outcomes of Grassroot Workers in conducting Hearing, Speech, and Language Screening for Children Under Six Using the SRESHT Screener” – Training and Education
The present study aims to develop and evaluate a traing module for grassroots workers, in rural Tamil Nadu, India, for effectively using a tablet-based screening device (SRESHT device) for identifying Hearing and Speech and Language disorders among children under six. The study used participatory research methods and focus group discussions to gather input from existing GRWs to understand the training requirements of developing a training module and as well as to evaluate its outcomes. The developed training module, which was content validated and used for field implementation, was designed to be conducted in two days with minimal theory content and maximum hands-on experience in simulated and real-life situations. The training materials consisted of video packages and picture manuals. The trining group consisted of 38 participants in various caders (19 nurses, 3 physiotherapists, 7 special educators and 9 community workers) working in a rural district in Tamil Nadu. The outscome of the training was evaluated for knowledge using a pre-post questionnaire. The outcome of skill training was evaluated using Objective Structured Clinical Examination in both simulayed and field setting. The results from the pre-test (M = 11.7, SD = 3.36) and post-test (M = 15.8, SD = 2.60) knowledge questionnaire indicate that there was a significant improvement in the knowledge component of the trainees, t(38) = – 8.140, p<0.001, d = -1.321. Skill evaluations showed that trainees were able to perform the skill with more than 80% score in both situations. The content and context-specific module developed can be effectively used as a “plug and play” module for further large-scale implementation in rural India. The findings suggest that individuals with specialized training at the community level can play a crucial role in providing healthcare services to rural people in low and middle income countries (LMICs).
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the training outcomes of grassroots workers in conducting hearing, speech, and language screening for children under six using the SRESHT screener and discuss implications for workforce development and early intervention.
Session 11: 90 mins = 1 PDH – 1 presenter failed to submit a disclosure
14:00 – 14:15 – Room 1
Presenter: Gaelle Vanelssa Ngankam Fotsing Epse Vofo
Combined hearing and eye screening of new-borns – a pilot study in Cameroon -empowering families
To evaluate a combined hearing and eye screening model for new-borns attending immunization clinics in Cameroon. Methods: We analysed data from a screening project that took place between November 2021 and February 2024 which assessed both the hearing and eyes of new-borns using otoacoustic emission and fundal reflex tests respectively. We then evaluated sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of screening conducted by trained auxiliary staff versus specialists. Findings: We screened 1807 new-borns in total, of which 54% (976/1807) were female. The median age at screening was 13 days. Eight percent of new-borns (141/1807) did not pass the otoacoustic emission test; screeners scheduled these new-borns for a second-line otoacoustic emission test within three months. Only 28% (39/141) returned for the repeat otoacoustic emission test. Of the returning cases, 33% (13/39) still did not pass, so screeners referred them for an auditory brainstem response threshold test. Screeners detected an absent fundal reflex in 2% of cases (27/1807). Compared with specialists, trained auxiliary staff showed 82% sensitivity and 99% specificity in hearing screening; predictive values were 90% (positive) and 99% (negative). For eye screening, sensitivity was 67% and specificity 99%, with predictive values of 86% (positive) and 98% (negative). Conclusion: Combined screening performed by trained auxiliary staff in immunization clinics offers a promising approach to screening new-borns’ hearing and eyes, enabling broader population coverage with fewer resources. Combined screening conducted at immunization clinics captures both hospital- and community-born babies and is therefore suitable for low- and middle-income countries.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze the outcomes of a pilot combined hearing and eye screening program for newborns in Cameroon and discuss how such initiatives can empower families in managing early childhood health.
14:15 – 14:30 Room 1
Presenter: Manita Pyakurel
Co- authors: Srijana Yogi & Rishi Bhatta
Empowering Communities for Ear Health: Task-Shifting from Otolaryngologists to Community Ear Health Workers (CEHW): a mixed method study from Nepal.
In Nepal, hearing loss remains a silent epidemic, with 38.9% hearing impairment, yet it is preventable. It often goes undetected due to a lack of specialists and system-wide neglect. In Nepal, otolaryngologists are mostly in cities, and only one organization has trained forty community ear health workers (CEHWs) so far. This study includes a community-based strategy by shifting essential ear care to trained CEHWs in accordance with Nepal’s health care delivery system. Objective: To assess the feasibility and impact of a community-driven task shifting model for early detection, referral, and ear education in rural Nepal. Methods: In Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts of Nepal, ten trained CEHWs performed basic ear checkups, provided the appropriate referral, and 20 CHWs provided ear education over three months. Community response was gathered through six key informant interviews with relevant stakeholders. Results: The ear education program reached 5206 people, and knowledge of ear health among the community population increased by 53%. A total of 1,236 people were screened, among whom 14% had ear problems. Out of 249 referrals, 71% sought and received further medical care. Qualitative findings showed strong community pride, with one stakeholder saying, “Trained local workers make ear care easier and faster for us.” Conclusion: Trained community ear health workers improved early detection and referral follow-up. Ear Education by CHVs significantly increased ear health knowledge. A Strong community ownership in this approach highlights, the approach offers an adaptable blueprint for other low-resource settings, lower- and middle-income countries. Keywords: ear care, low resource settings, Nepal, task shifting.
Disclosures:
Dr. Bhatta receives a consulting fee from KIST Medical College and Teaching Hospital.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of task-shifting ear health services from otolaryngologists to Community Ear Health Workers (CEHWs) in Nepal and discuss its implications for strengthening community-based ear care.
14:30 – 14:45 Room 1
Presenters: Alexandra Hustedt-Mai & Michael G. Heinz
Accessible Precision Audiology Research Center (APARC): Community-Engaged Hearing Research in Indiana and Beyond
430 million people across the globe have untreated hearing loss, 80% live in low/middle-income countries. Access to hearing healthcare is a major barrier with only one audiologist per 24,500 people in the U.S., and less than one per million people in most low-income countries. Even when care is available, treatment effectiveness is limited by poor diagnostic specificity for sensorineural hearing loss. The Accessible Precision Audiology Research Center (APARC) addresses these concerns by leveraging collaborations between audiology, auditory neuroscience, and AI data analytics to collect large-N data from diverse populations and developing an outreach model to provide audiological care to under-resourced communities. Methods: Originally located on campus, APARC expanded to Indianapolis to improve accessibility and participant diversity. APARC fosters community engagement and provides free comprehensive hearing evaluations. APARC has made lab testing completely mobile to reach rural communities who lack access. In partnership with Creare, APARC is validating the Open Hearing platform, an affordable, open-source hearing research toolkit designed to increase transparency and access to technology. Results: APARC opened next to a food court to facilitate community engagement and reach diverse populations. APARC has participated in many community events including the Indy Winter’s Farmers Market, which works with low-income community members. In 8 months open we have conducted comprehensive hearing evaluations for over 200 participants (racial demographics mirror the US), with each receiving results and recommendations from an audiologist. Additionally, APARC has received pilot funding to work with rural health clinics to teach providers how to screen for and counsel on hearing loss while bringing our comprehensive testing to the community with our mobile equipment, including the Open Hearing platform. Conclusions: APARC demonstrates the benefits and feasibility of community-engaged research. With a model that can be expanded to increase access to quality audiological care in underserved communities.
Disclosures:
Dr. Hustedt-Mai receives a salary from Purdue University.
Dr. Heinz receives a salary from Purdue University and holds a management position.
Dr. Heinz is a principal investigator on a grant for the Purdue Center for Rural and Migrant Health
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the role of the Accessible Precision Audiology Research Center (APARC) in advancing community-engaged hearing research in Indiana and beyond, and analyze its implications for inclusive and translational hearing health research.
14:45 – 15:00 Room 1
Presenter: Meera Suresh
Project Dhvani Balavidyalaya – a successful and scalable model for oral early intervention of deaf and hard of hearing children
Early identification and intervention for hearing loss in children is the cornerstone in developing speech and language. DHVANI- Development of Hearing, Voice and Natural Integration is a fail-proof methodology created by Balavidyalaya The school for young deaf children Chennai India towards this goal. DHVANI is a low cost, inclusive and accessible program rooted in the philosophy of early identification and intervention of children below the age of 3 years. The infants fitted with amplification devices are always in a language rich environment both at school and at home. The parents are empowered to become effective caregivers. To start the learning process, this parent infant program uses play, toys and picture books. Gradually activity-based learning techniques with DHVANI Teaching Learning Materials lays a strong foundation in reading, writing and numeracy skills. The six-year-old graduate from the DHVANI program walks into the first grade of any regular school confidently. DHVANI is an easy to replicate, plug and play model. All it needs is two DHVANI trained teachers, two classrooms, DHVANI Teaching Learning Material, toys and story books. Partnerships with local hospitals to screen newborns allows for even 10 day-old babies to join the program and develop speech and language from the get-go. DHVANI can be adapted across languages, thereby driving inclusivity worldwide. This model has already seen success in not just Balavidyalaya but at centres across all 34 districts of the state of Tamil Nadu, Tirupati, Hyderabad, Nagpur, Colombo – Sri Lanka and most recently Rwanda, Africa. It has resulted in 2200 successful students who are thriving in schools, universities and workplaces across the world today. DHVANI aligns with WHO’s mission for Advanced Hearing Health, serving as a blueprint for low resourced countries and organisations worldwide to implement, thereby addressing the continued need for early intervention of hearing loss.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to examine Project Dhvani Balavidyalaya as a model for oral early intervention of deaf and hard of hearing children and discuss its success factors and scalability for broader implementation.
15:00 – 15:15 Room 1
Presenters: Kennedy Mugambi / Rosemary Kihoto / Nicholas Nyamweya
Scaling Newborn Hearing Screening in Kenya Early Experiences, Lessons, and Best Practices.
Over 34 million children globally live with disabling hearing loss, the majority in low- and middle-income countries (WHO, 2021). In Kenya, congenital and early-onset hearing loss frequently goes undetected due to the absence of routine screening, resulting in delayed speech, language development, and educational setbacks. Major neonatal risk factors include hyperbilirubinemia, meningitis, birth asphyxia, low birth weight, and ototoxic medications (MoH Kenya, 2018). Despite the burden, newborn hearing screening remains poorly integrated into essential care. With support from ATscale and the LEGO Foundation, Kenya—in collaboration with the Ministry of Health—is scaling a national program to introduce structured newborn hearing screening across public health facilities. Objective To share Kenya’s early implementation experiences, highlight emerging outcomes, and document best practices from the newborn hearing screening initiative. Methods A comprehensive, systems-based approach was adopted: • Development of national screening and diagnostic guidelines. • Deployment of Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) and AABR devices to high-volume facilities. • Introduction of higher national diploma curricula for specialized training. • Capacity building for nurses, audiologists, and ENT specialists. • Integration of screening data into the DHIS2 for real-time monitoring. • Use of a digital AT dashboard to coordinate partner activities. • Linkage of screening logistics with KEMSA’s LMIS to strengthen supply chains. Key Results (KNH, N=640) • 78% were initial screens; 22% were follow-ups. • Sex distribution: 52% male, 48% female. • Mean screening age: 1.5 months (majority screened by 3 months). • ~5% identified with hearing loss (sensorineural or conductive). • Risk factors: jaundice, sepsis, prematurity, family history. Discussion and Conclusion This initiative demonstrates that newborn hearing screening is feasible, effective, and scalable within primary care settings in Kenya. Critical enablers include policy integration, workforce development, and robust data systems. Continued scale-up, improved referrals, and expanded diagnostics can significantly reduce preventable childhood disability and enhance developmental outcomes.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze early experiences from scaling newborn hearing screening in Kenya and identify lessons learned and best practices to inform future program expansion.
15:15 – 15:30 Room 1
Presenter: Mathew Kiewski
Kinetic Energy-Powered Hearing Aids: A Frugal, Child-Centred Solution for Off-Grid Accessibility
Globally, an estimated 430 million people experience disabling hearing loss, yet fewer than 2% have access to hearing aids—largely due to affordability, lack of infrastructure, and social stigma. These challenges are particularly acute in low-resource settings where power access and clinical services are limited. In partnership with Solar Ear, our student team from Cornell University’s Engineering World Health chapter is developing a sustainable, body-worn hearing aid that uses kinetic energy harvested from motion to power basic auditory amplification. The system aims to eliminate the need for disposable batteries or stationary charging infrastructure while offering a socially inclusive and child-friendly design. Inspired by the energy systems in kinetic watches, our device leverages a micro-generator driven by walking or other daily motion to produce electricity. This energy is stored in a capacitor or rechargeable battery and used to power a Class-D or K-AMP style amplifier designed to boost soft sounds while allowing louder sounds to pass through naturally. We also explore hybrid systems that incorporate solar charging to increase reliability. Emphasis is placed on comfort, durability, and reducing stigma by designing the hearing aid as a colorful, customizable wearable—such as an action-figure-style pendant or belt attachment. Beyond technical prototyping, our work includes user-centered design research, a cost feasibility analysis, and early-stage stakeholder engagement. Our long-term vision includes community-based distribution, clinical input from audiology partners, and validation in collaboration with schools for the deaf. This oral presentation will share our technical approach, design methodology, and vision for implementation. By combining frugal engineering with inclusive design and renewable energy systems, we aim to expand hearing aid access for children living in off-grid or underserved communities.
Disclosures:
Presenter has not yet reported on financial or non-financial relationship. ASHA CEU credits are not available for this lecture
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the potential of kinetic energy–powered hearing aids as a frugal, child-centred solution to improve accessibility in off-grid settings.
Session 12: 90 mins = 1.5 PDH’s
14:00 – 14:15 – Room 2
Presenter: Norberto Martinez
Certification Course for Ear and Hearing Care: Augmenting the Manpower Needs in the Philippines
The Philippines is composed of 7,641 islands with a population of 116.78M. Ms Clin Audiology was started at the University of Santo Tomas in 1999 and have graduated about 350 students. Unfortunately, 60% of the graduates are working abroad and there is a shortage of manpower to address the ear and hearing care needs of the country. OBJECTIVES -To design a 5-month hybrid course for nurses employed by the local government who will serve as frontliners in the community -To assess the usefulness of the course in serving the ear and hear care needs of the community -To determine if the graduates have been practicing what they learned in their locality METHODS -Nurses have been identified by the local government to enroll in the course -Students attended a 2-hour online classes once a week and 4 onsite modules during the 5-month period -Final on the job training allows them to assess for hearing loss, fit hearing aids and do counselling to hundreds of patients -Survey is conducted among the graduates 6 months after graduation to determine their practice RESULTS 66 nurses from 4 localities have completed the course and served as frontliners in the community for ear and hearing health care. They conduct after care for patients that have been fitted with hearing aids and refer patients accordingly. CONCLUSION The Certification Course for Ear and Hearing Care have augmented the manpower needs of the country in terms of audiological care.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to describe the development of a certification course for ear and hearing care in the Philippines and evaluate its role in addressing workforce gaps and strengthening service delivery.
14:15 – 14:30 Room 2
Presenter: Joan McCormack
Moving from Relief to Development – First Steps
This presentation shares outcomes and lessons learned from the initial phase of a collaborative development project in rural Tanzania. Hearing the Call, a U.S.-based NGO, partnered with the Audiology and ENT Departments of Bugando Medical Center in Mwanza—a 1,000-bed tertiary facility serving over 22 million Tanzanians. Rather than delivering short-term relief, the project focused on sustainable impact through in-clinic training of local hearing care providers. The goal was to strengthen professional capacity by building knowledge and skills in key areas. Prior to travel, several months of Zoom meetings allowed us to learn about local practices and co-develop goals. The May training focused on early identification of hearing loss in children, pediatric assessment and intervention, and establishing a hearing aid dispensary. This session will highlight insights from a needs-based, partnership-driven model and outline the next steps in our long-term development plan. Joan E. McCormack, Au.D., Development Lead for Tanzania, Hearing the Call
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to explain the transition from short-term relief efforts to sustainable development initiatives and identify key first steps for building long-term impact in ear and hearing care.
14:30 – 14:45 Room 2
Presenter: Kalishia Naidu – Author S Moodley
A Review of the Use of Simulation in Higher Education in South Africa – 2010-2024
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online and hybrid learning models, with simulation playing a crucial role in providing practical experiences. This scoping review aims to identify and collate published studies related to the use of simulation in the medical and allied health fields of higher education in South Africa, focusing on the period from 2010 to 2024. Methods: The review follows Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) scoping review framework. Peer-reviewed articles published between January 2015 and December 2024, conducted within the South African context, and written in English were eligible for inclusion. A total of 52 articles were selected and analysed based on year of study, province, type of research, higher education field, and simulation focus. Results: The growth in simulation studies shows the increase in uptake of simulation technology for teaching and learning. However, the study also identified challenges like the lack of improvement in skills with simulation due to manikin material and simulation fidelity. This review identifies the need for African-relevant simulation materials and activities; and calls for a comprehensive study of existing simulation studies in South Africa to leverage current strengths and weaknesses and identify opportunities for further research. Conclusion: The integration of simulation in higher education in South Africa has grown exponentially, driven by technological advancements and the need for practical, experiential learning. However, there is a need for evaluation of simulation cost and benefit, especially in a multicultural context. The review underscores the importance of strategic planning, curriculum evaluation, and effective integration of simulation into higher education programs. Future research should focus on addressing the challenges of implementing simulation, such as the cost of simulators and the need for trained personnel, to maximize its benefits in higher education.
Disclosures:
No known financial or non-financial relationships exist.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to review the use of simulation in higher education in South Africa between 2010 and 2024 and identify trends, benefits, and gaps to inform future teaching and learning practices.
14:45 – 15:00 Room 2
Presenter: Jacinto Fragoso
Language Access Challenges in Audiology training and education
Part One:Individuals who have the limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English have limited English proficiency (LEP) (Yeboah et al., 2023). As a result of historic and current immigration to the United States of America (USA), there has been a rise of linguistic diversity with the number of people who speak a language other than English nearly tripling since the 1980s (Batlova et al, 2016; Dietrich et al., 2022 Moslimani et al., 2024). Approximately 27.5 million people in the USA are considered to have LEP, regardless of immigration status (Batalova, 2025). Due to the increased number of individuals who may not speak, write, or read proficient English in the United States, healthcare providers must be prepared to care effectively and sensitively for this population to ensure positive patient experiences and outcomes. A 26-question survey was sent to all providers within the divisions of audiology, speech language pathology, and physical and occupational therapies at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC). The survey asked varying questions about previous training or education received on working with an interpreter, how comfortable they feel working with an interpreter, and asked the providers to explain barriers they face while working with a language interpreter. This presentation will incorporate results from the survey and emphasize the need for additional efforts to be made towards educating and training allied health professionals on how to best work with LEP patients and language interpreters. Part Two: CCHMC Audiology found the Spanish-speaking patient population is disproportionally represented in the no-show/loss to follow-up rate in the department. Will discuss interventions that are being conducted to increase language access of this population to improve healthcare access and trust between the Spanish-speaking population and CCHMC Audiology.
Disclosures:
Dr. Fragoso receives a salary from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to analyze language access challenges in audiology training and education and discuss strategies to promote equity and inclusivity in professional preparation.
15:00 – 15:15 Room 2
Presenter: Rolvix Patterson
Developing and evaluating an mHealth Tympanometry Training Program for Lay Health Screeners in Resource-Constrained Settings
Background and Objectives: Expanding early detection of middle ear disease is critical in resource-constrained settings. A novel low-cost mHealth tympanometer offers a scalable screening method, but effective lay screener training is essential. This study aims to develop a contextually adapted mHealth tympanometer training program and evaluate implementation facilitators, barriers, and lay screeners’ self-reported knowledge and preparedness after training. Methods: The training program was adapted from an mHealth pure-tone audiometer curriculum used in South Africa. The Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications-Expanded guided iterative adaptations using input from local audiologists and community health workers to ensure cultural and linguistic relevance. The training was conducted for 24 lay health screeners in Paarl, South Africa, including community health workers, teachers, and others. Pre- and post-training surveys assessed participants’ knowledge and preparedness. Semi-structured interviews explored implementation barriers and facilitators. Results: Mixed-methods analysis showed the training program was effective and identified areas for improvement. Preparedness to explain the device’s purpose rose from 12% to 79%, and ability to use it increased from 17% to 92%. Knowledge of probe tip selection and cleaning procedures improved from 17% to 96%. Familiarity with the mobile application rose from 4% to 58%, and understanding of the health benefits increased from 8% to 96%. Participants described the training as informative and effective. The video component was helpful but too fast-paced for some, and additional instruction on hygiene and troubleshooting was recommended. Hands-on practice was essential, with emphasis on proper positioning for a hermetic seal. Participants expressed confidence the program could be adapted for broader use in rural or under-resourced settings. Conclusion: The adapted training program effectively improved lay screeners’ knowledge and preparedness for mHealth tympanometry. Participants found it practical and scalable, with hands-on practice and minor content refinements key to enhancing future implementation in low-resource settings.
Disclosures:
Dr. Patterson is the vice president and volunteer on the board of directors for Global Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Initiative, Inc.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to evaluate the development and effectiveness of an mHealth tympanometry training program for lay health screeners in resource-constrained settings and discuss its potential for expanding access to ear and hearing care.
15:15 – 15:30 Room 2
Presenter: Joyce Sagun
Training, Education, and Preparedness of Audiologists in High-Income vs Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Global disparities in audiology education, preparedness, and resource access impact the quality of hearing healthcare. This study compares key demographic, educational, and professional variables between audiologists in high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle- income countries (LMICs) to identify gaps and opportunities for development. Methods: An international, prospective, cross-sectional survey developed and distributed by the Global Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Initiative was conducted. The questionnaire assessed audiologist demographics, training types, task preparedness, learning preferences, training decision factors, and access to professional resources across respondents. Statistical significance between groups was assessed using chi-square tests and p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Demographically, most participants in both groups were female (~73%) and practiced in urban areas. HIC respondents had significantly more years of professional experience (p=0.001). Access to formal audiology training programs was markedly higher in HICs (91.4% vs. 46.2%, p<0.001), along with postgraduate degrees, CPD participation, and accredited education. HIC audiologists reported significantly higher preparedness in adult hearing assessments (p=0.003), pediatric assessments (p=0.039), and hearing aid rehabilitation (p=0.003). Conversely, LMIC respondents felt more confident in otoscopy and cerumen management (p=0.014). Training decisions in LMICs were more influenced by cost and local language availability (p<0.001), while HICs prioritized quality and employment prospects. Emigration was a significantly more important factor for LMIC respondents (p<0.001). In terms of resource access, HICs reported significantly better availability of academic journals and publications (p<0.001), while LMICs had better access to clinical meetings (p=0.039). No major differences were observed in access to webinars or short courses. Conclusion: Significant inequities exist in audiology education and preparedness between HICs and LMICs. Addressing barriers such as cost, language, and access to accredited training is critical for building global capacity and improving equitable hearing care.
Disclosures:
Dr. Sagun receives a salary from the University of Santo Tomas and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium. She also receives a consulting fee from The Specialists Surgery and Cancer Center, Maxicare Healthcare Services Inc., and Medicard Phillippines.
Dr. Sagun volunteers as an Otorhinolaryngologist-Audiologst at Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Phillippines, Rotary Club International, Global Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Initiative (GOHNSI), and Global Audiology Working Group of International Society of Audiology.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to compare the training, education, and preparedness of audiologists in high-income versus low- and middle-income countries and discuss implications for strengthening global audiology capacity.