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Title

Survey of Audiologists' Role on Interprofessional Teams

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

5-2020

Disciplines

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Abstract

Purpose: Interprofessional teamwork, sometimes referred to as interprofessional collaboration or interprofessional collaborative practice (IPP), refers to the cooperation, coordination, and collaboration among professionals representing different disciplines in order to provide holistic patient-centered care. This study aimed to identify whether audiologists are included on interprofessional teams across the United States and if so, to determine the nature and extent of their contributions? Additionally, researchers hoped this study would increase awareness of audiologists on interprofessional teams.Method: Currently practicing, licensed audiologists from any work setting (i.e. private clinic, hospital, school system, etc.) were recruited to participate in this study. Participants completed an online survey through PsychData covering demographics and audiologists’ roles and responsibilities on interprofessional teams. Results: Data from 159 AuDs were analyzed. Results indicated that while 100% of participants felt that audiologists should be considered integral members of interprofessional/multidisciplinary teams, only 47.5% of respondents reported currently practicing on an interdisciplinary team. Of these respondents, 78.9% serve on the team on a regular basis. 52.6% of audiologists see their role as providing information on hearing sensitivity with 0% reporting that their role is to provide information on speech and language. The majority of audiologists surveyed are not participating on Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic, Down Syndrome Clinic, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Clinic, Hearing Loss Clinic, IFSP, NICU, Long-term Care Conference, or Transitional Care Teams. In addition, 86% of audiologists reported being frequently overlooked as potential members on interprofessional/multidisciplinary teams.Conclusion: The results demonstrated that audiologists are currently an underutilized resource on interprofessional teams. Audiologists should continue to educate others on the importance of audiologic services and advocate for the profession.

First Advisor

Marni Johnson

Research Area

Communication Sciences and Disorders

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