The Audiology Department
Contact Info | General Info | Types of Hearing Loss

The Orange County Public Schools Audiology Department is comprised of audiologists and hearing screeners responsible for a comprehensive hearing screening, audiological evaluation, and hearing management program. This program is available to children throughout Orange County.

The services provided by the Audiology Department include:

• hearing screening in the elementary, middle, and high schools
• hearing evaluations
• hearing aid/FM selection, fitting, and management
• case management of hearing impaired students in the OCPS Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program

Those eligible for services include:

• students enrolled in the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program
• students referred by the Hearing Screening Program
• infants, pre-school, and school-aged children residing in Orange County referred by area professionals
• children referred by the Early Intervention Services Program
• children referred by First Start Head Start, FDLRS, and other agencies

Audiologists are hearing healthcare professionals, who hold a master's or doctoral degree in Audiology. They specialize in the prevention, identification, and assessment of hearing disorders. OCPS audiologists:

• test and diagnose hearing disorders in infants and children
• prescribe hearing aids/assisted listening devices and instruct people in their use
• coordinate the Hearing Screening Program
• assist in program placement of hearing impaired students
• counsel families about the effects of hearing loss
• participate in multidisciplinary team meetings
• provide training to staff members working with hearing impaired students

TYPES OF HEARING LOSSES

A conductive hearing loss results when sound cannot be conducted efficiently through the outer and/or middle ear. This causes a decrease in the loudness of sounds heard. A sensorineural hearing loss results when either the inner ear or the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain are damaged. This usually causes both a reduction in the loudness of sounds and a decrease in speech understanding. A mixed hearing loss results when an individual has both a conductive and a sensorineural hearing loss.

WHY is hearing so important?

Hearing is necessary for proper speech development. As a baby hears sounds and words, the foundation for speech and language is laid. This learning begins at birth.

WHO can develop a hearing problem?

Any child can be born with a hearing problem or can develop one at any age. Some infants are more likely to have a hearing problem and are considered "at risk" for hearing loss. These children should have their hearing tested as soon after birth as possible.

WHEN can I have my child's hearing evaluated?

A child's hearing can be checked as soon as one day after birth, so don't "wait and see". If you suspect your child has a problem hearing, contact your child's physician or an audiologist immediately.

WHAT can be done if my child has a hearing loss?

There are many ways to help a hearing impaired child develop speech and language. After evaluation,an individualized treatment program will be developed by your child's audiologist and other professionals.