Audiology 2050 Provides A Bold Vision for the Future of Audiology: Together We Can Achieve It
Stephanie Czuhajewski, MPH, CAE, Executive Director
With the introduction of Audiology 2050, the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA) has put forward an ambitious and transformative roadmap to secure the future of audiology. At its core, this initiative prioritizes patient well-being while positioning audiologists rightfully as primary care providers for auditory and vestibular conditions. By advancing professional standards, modernizing Medicare laws and state audiology practice laws, and adopting innovative workforce and care delivery models, Audiology 2050 lays the groundwork for a stronger, more effective, and patient-centered profession.
To realize this vision, the initiative outlines seven key objectives that are essential for the profession to reach its full potential. Each objective underscores the necessity of aligning audiology with contemporary healthcare demands, and ensuring access, quality, and innovation in patient care (see page 42 for the full description and design of Audiology 2050)
State and federal laws lag behind the realities of clinical audiology practice. Audiology 2050 seeks to update these laws reflect the full competencies and capabilities of audiologists, including the evaluation, diagnosis, management, and treatment of auditory and vestibular conditions. This alignment will ensure that audiologists are recognized for their education and training, enabling them to practice at the top of their license—and enabling millions of Americans to have ready access to hearing and balance healthcare services.
As the practice of audiology is modernized, so too must be the clinical practices that support it. Consistency and quality are foundational to patient care. Audiology 2050 emphasizes the importance of adopting standardized, evidence-based clinical practices. By collaborating with interdisciplinary experts and promoting ADA’s Audiology Practice Accreditation standards, Audiology 2050 aims to promote the delivery of equitable and optimal audiologic care for every patient.
To meet growing patient demand and optimize care delivery, Audiology 2050 supports the development of new workforce models that include qualified extenders. These professionals will enhance service delivery, improve efficiencies, and allow audiologists to focus on more complex clinical responsibilities. Innovative educational models will prepare future professionals for these roles while maintaining the high standards that define the profession of audiology.
Audiology 2050 can only be achieved if individual audiologists take up the cause in large numbers. Together we can achieve this vision, strengthening audiology and improving patient outcomes, while transforming the practice of audiology to achieve its full potential as a clinical doctoring profession. Please contact me at