The Audiology Program through Linn Benton Lincoln ESD provides in-depth hearing evaluations and support services for children and students from birth through 21 years old residing in Linn, Benton, or Lincoln counties.
Eligibility
The program serves children and students attending public, private, or home schools who:
- Have not passed school hearing screenings
- Are being considered for special education services
- Have an existing or progressive hearing loss
Referral
Parents, school staff, or other providers can refer a child by contacting the audiology program or their school’s speech-language pathologist if there are any concerns about the child’s hearing. Annual hearing screenings are conducted for kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd grade students, after which evaluations may be recommended for those who do not pass.
Diagnostic Evaluation Services
Our licensed audiologists perform a comprehensive battery of tests that may include:
- Otoscopy (visual ear examination)
- Tympanometry (middle ear evaluation)
- Air/bone conduction audiometry (hearing threshold testing)
- Speech audiometry
- Otoacoustic emissions (inner ear testing)
- Conditioned play/visual reinforcement audiometry for young children
Tailored Recommendations and Support
Following the evaluation, the audiologist provides:
- A detailed report of findings and any diagnosed impairments
- Customized recommendations for accommodations, assistive devices, educational programming, medical referrals, and more
- Consultations with parents, Teachers of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing, and school teams
- Hearing aid fittings, repairs, loaner devices, and classroom audio distribution systems as needed
No-Cost Evaluations and Support
There are no fees for LBL’s hearing evaluations, consultations, or most audiology support services. Funding assistance may be available for hearing aid costs.
Early identification and appropriate accommodations are vital for children’s auditory development and academic success. Partner with our experienced audiology team to ensure your students receive the hearing health services they need.
Contact us today to discuss an audiological evaluation referral.
