An Audiometrist (from Latin audīre, "to hear"; and from Italian -metria, “to measure” ) or Audiometric Officer, is a health-care professional technician[1] who has received special training in the use of Pure tone audiometry equipment.
These misconceptions continue to grow, in Australia in particular, which leads to the need for greater communication, less segregation of each other's role within the community and a broader understanding of each other's qualifications.
However, the title audiometrist is often used interchangeably with the role of audiologists, thereby making a precise definition of the word more difficult.
In the UK and Ireland Audiometrists generally differ from Audiologists in that they do not require or hold an Academic Degree or Doctorate in Audiology.
As in the UK and Ireland, in Australia and New Zealand Audiometrists can receive certified training in audiometric screening.
[13][14][15] An Audiometrist can choose to complete either a Certificate IV in Audiometric Assessment (available only as part of an apprenticeship) or a Diploma of Hearing Device Prescription and Evaluation.
After this time they are permitted to sit a stringent theoretical and practical exam before a panel of industry experts to be declared competent to prescribe and fit hearing aids.
Audiometrists must also comply with a continuing education program which ensures maintenance of clinical skills as technology changes occur.