This course will review the results from pilot studies on user preferences and interactions with Phonak's smartphone fine tuning app.

Research has shown that there are known associations between hearing loss and cognitive abilities. Cognitive decline has been seen to be accelerated in people with hearing loss. Several hypotheses exist regarding the underlying mechanisms driving the described associations. Science is currently trying to find the most likely explanation. One of the more researched hypotheses is that impoverished auditory input leads to decreased cognition - So can hearing aids delay the issue? The session will give an overview of the current state of knowledge.

The new Phonak Marvel platform has several key features specifically designed for first-time hearing aid users. A study at the Phonak Audiology Research Center investigated sound quality ratings of new hearing aid users for Phonak Marvel compared to two other devices, and found preference for the Phonak Marvel device.

To date, research investigating hearing aid adoption has focused on intra-individual factors (i.e., variables related to a given individual). In contrast, comparatively less emphasis has been devoted to understanding how inter-individual (i.e., interpersonal) or contextual factors (i.e., situational) factors contribute to patient decision making regarding hearing aid adoption. This presentation will outline theoretical factors relevant to improve our understanding as well as be exposed to recent large-scale research studies in support of this view.

This course will discuss Phonak TargetMatch - an easy to use, 3 step system which directly integrates clinical measurement equipment to Phonak fitting software. It will discuss the current clinical REM application and limitations, and participants will learn the benefits of adding TargetMatch into their daily hearing aid fittings. The effective integration of real ear measurement capabilities with a single piece of equipment will lead to a more successful hearing aid fitting and higher satisfaction rate with hearing aid outcomes.

Phonak Audeo Marvel delivers revolutionary, ground breaking hearing aid technology while providing clear, rich sound, universal connectivity and rechargeability. With Phonak Marvel, AutoSense OS™ 3.0 has been further optimized to offer a more natural sound quality in even the toughest environments while being able to classified streamed inputs like music or speech. This course will discuss the evolution of automatic hearing aid technology and how it has transformed to meet unique patient needs and increasingly demanding listening environments. Participants will gain an understanding and awareness of how to best apply automatic technology to their current patient population.

From the moment we inform families of their child’s hearing loss, there is much to discuss and understand. However, for many reasons, families may not bring up their questions or concerns. Using a tool like the CHL QPL involves far more than providing surface answers to family questions and concerns. Easy-to-apply listening and counseling skills are needed to understand what a particular question means to a particular family, and whether it is indirectly related to other, more complicated concerns.

When patients demand an invisible hearing solution, that’s durable and for more than just a mild loss, Phonak’s Virto B Titanium is the solution. The Virto B-Titanium is Phonak’s smallest custom product ever. The new Virto B-Titanium has many new features and benefits including the new Titanium FitGuide (TFG). Product characteristics of Phonak Virto B Titanium and how it benefits your patients and your practice will be discussed.

Teens today face pressures with school, sports, relationships and media. Participating and feeling accepted takes confidence which is not always easy for teens with hearing loss. When teens hear well, they can connect socially resulting in them feeling more comfortable in their own skin and confident enough to break out and be different. Hearing technology that allows them to fully participate and communicate in every situation will give them the sense of well-being so that they can make sure to make the most of those exciting and challenging teenage years. Phonak Marvel does just that! In this course, we will review Phonak Audeo Marvel as a solution for teens with hearing loss.

This course focused on how hearing healthcare providers can use various demonstration techniques and tools in their clinical environment to demonstrate technology, features and value to their patients. Various Phonak demonstration tools built into Phonak Target software, as well as protocols developed with clinical experts, will be reviewed.