What is the main focus of audiology as a field?

The primary focus of audiology is the study of hearing disorders. Audiologists are professionals who specialize in identifying and assessing hearing loss, providing interventions, and offering rehabilitative services to improve patients' auditory capabilities. This field encompasses the evaluation of hearing function, the diagnosis of auditory disorders, and the development of treatment plans, which may include the fitting of hearing aids and other assistive devices. The emphasis is on understanding how individuals perceive sound and how various factors can affect hearing abilities, making it a critical area within healthcare for addressing communication needs and quality of life for those with hearing issues.