Welcome to the
New Hampshire Academy of Audiology
Mission Statement
The New Hampshire Academy of Audiology was established in 1993 for the purposes of
- serving as a resource for hearing at any age
- advocating for the rights of persons with hearing impairment
- cooperating and collaborating with people who are committed to promoting the welfare of persons with hearing impairment
- having a positive affect on the development and/or continuance of hearing healthcare programs and services in New Hampshire
- engaging in legislative actions when necessary to fulfill any and all of the above
About Us
The New Hampshire Academy of Audiology was established in 1993 by audiologists from around the state as a nonprofit organization to address professional issues and standards of hearing healthcare. We practice in a variety of settings including private offices, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, research facilities, universities, and in association with doctors who specialize in the medical treatment of ears. Our members are located in communities across the state.
- We serve as a resource for information about human hearing at any age, including hearing evaluation and assessment, prevention of hearing loss, non medical treatment, hearing and vestibular rehabilitation.
- We advocate for the rights of people with hearing impairment in different settings including public buildings and events, schools and the workplace.
- We foster the profession through continuing education activities, cooperation and collaboration with other people and organizations also committed to promoting the welfare of persons with hearing impairment.
- We engage in legislation, legislative actions when necessary to fulfill the above and/or affect the development or continuance of hearing healthcare programs and services within the state.
Our first effort in 1993 was to promote legislation to license audiologists in our state. That was accomplished in 1996. The New Hampshire board of hearing care providers was convened in 1997 to write the rules of operation for this oversight board. These rules were accepted by the Legislature in 1998. Since that time, all audiologists who practice in New Hampshire are required to be licensed.
In 1996 the academy turned its attention to promoting continuing education and began to host a full day seminar each fall. In 2000 we joined efforts with the Maine Academy of Audiology. The annual seminar has been co-hosted by both academies since that time.
Members of our academy continue to support the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening effort in the state. Additionally, efforts to improve access to quality follow-up care for the infant and pediatric population identified with hearing loss are ongoing.
President's Letter
I am proud to be a part of the New Hampshire Academy of Audiology. I know that we can successfully meet our goals when we work together as a team; collaboration is needed to continue to make our voices heard. New Hampshire has many smart, talented and dedicated audiologists. As President, it is my role to represent all of you in my interactions with others to ensure that we are promoting ethical and best practices, professional development and utilizing technology appropriately to the citizens of this great state.
Since its inception in 1993, the Academy has promoted legislation, provided continuing education and established hearing assistance technology access in public spaces. This work continues as we monitor and provide testimony to Legislative Committees considering Bills that have a impact on our profession. Current concerns include the development of Telehealth services and rule making, and the reorganization and responsibilities of the Office of Professional Licensing and Certification.
Our bi-annual, in person, conference is well attended. Audiologists enjoy the pleasure of meeting and networking with colleagues and vendors while learning about newer advances and technology in a relaxed atmosphere. Our past three conferences have been held in Portsmouth, NH, but we welcome other suggestions for locations. Our next conference should be in 2025. Please consider joining other members on the committee as many hands make less work for all.
I'd like to thank our continuing Board members; Marilyn Howard, Vice President and Mary Hunting, Treasurer. At this time we still need someone to step up and consider becoming the Secretary.
Participation from members of the Academy is vital; we need to hear from YOU! We have worked hard to keep our membership cost low and invite you to join in our efforts. If you aren't currently a member of the Academy, please consider joining us. The more members we have allows us to have a stronger voice for the future. If you're already a member, please consider lending a hand or a few minutes here and there to share your thoughts and ideas.
—Carolyn Drury. M S.