ADA AuDacity 2024 Featured Keynote: Innovation Update in Hearing Care

At the 2024 Academy of Doctors of Audiology conference, a panel featuring Andrew Bellavia, Steve Taddei, and David Kemp provided insights into current innovations in hearing healthcare with a focus on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostics, devices, and care delivery. The wide-ranging discussion began by diving into how AI-driven tools such as automated audiograms, real-ear measurements, and advanced hearing aid programming, are poised to transform the landscape of hearing care both in clinics and in ways that reach underserved regions. Then they tackled AI in hearing aids, how it is employed today, and what's coming to improve outcomes particularly in noisy situations both in prescription and consumer devices.

Stigma remains a discussion point and the panelists lent their thoughts, naming how the convergence of stylish earbuds and hearing protection is intersecting with hearing aid designs, changing mindsets and reducing hearing loss stigma. The conversation naturally turned to the present state of OTC hearing aids, if they are delivering on the promise to improve accessibility at lower prices, how the hearing care profession is affected, and how audiologists are communicating their value in the face of widespread OTC messaging. Other innovations covered include an Auracast update and the range of tools and devices to inform consumers of their noise exposure and how to protect against it.

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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction
03:42 AI diagnostics and fitting
06:50 Audiologists' reaction
09:51 Leveraging AI tools in context of shortage of HCPs
16:28 Using these tools to reach underserved populations
19:35 Enabling allied healthcare providers
20:27 Present & future of AI in hearing devices
26:28 Alternative form factors and reducing stigma
36:20 Are OTC hearing aids delivering on their promise?
42:43 Are HCPs incorporating OTC in their practices?
46:38 How do HCPs communicate their true value?
49:57 What are DIY'ers missing by not going to clinic?
54:45 Future of connectivity: LE Audio & Auracast update
1:08:11 Hearing protection tools for consumers that HCPs can incorporate
1:15:45 Enthusiastic clapping