Nowadays, it’s pretty easy to search for just about anything and find the answer right at your fingertips. The internet brings a wealth of information into our homes and offices every day. If you’re thinking about seeing an audiologist for a hearing check, the internet is a great place to start. Here are some tips on how to search the internet for an audiologist.

Do a Local Search

Regardless of what search engine you use, you’ll be able to locate a number of different audiologists in your area with a simple inquiry. A search for “audiologists, your town” will give you names of local practices and audiologists. From this list, you can navigate to different websites and compare information. Be sure to check location and office hours, but also take a good look at the audiologists, their education and experience, and patient reviews.

Search Professional Organizations

Most audiologists belong to professional organizations for continuing education and certification. This membership demonstrates a commitment to their profession as well as high ethical standards. Finding a local audiologist via search pages on these websites assures you that the audiologist is up-to-date on the latest technology and techniques. Here are a few of these organizations: The American Academy of Audiology, The Academy of Doctors of Audiology and The American Speech-Language Association.

Check Local Media Websites

Your local TV stations and newspapers often do what are called “feature stories.” The report may spotlight a local audiologist doing things such as volunteer work or receiving an award. This is another way for you to learn more about an audiologist. Go to your favorite search engine and type in the name of your local newspaper or a TV station and find the search box on their page. Search for “audiologist” and check the results. If your town has a local magazine, you might find doctor reviews on that website as well.

Medical Review Websites

You’ve probably come across these websites in searches for medical information. The pages allow patients to rate services provided, “bedside manner” and appointment wait times. However, keep in mind that these opinions may be biased (one way or the other). Also, these pages allow medical professionals to advertise which can also affect ratings. But the websites do provide valuable information such as how long the audiologist has been in practice, education, certification, office location and insurance. These websites include: Healthgrades, Vitals, RateMDs. The websites use either a five or four-point system to rate medical professionals.

As you search the internet for an audiologist, you will find a great deal of information not only about audiologists, but also about hearing health. Try to take advantage of articles and blog posts you find along the way to inform you about hearing tests, hearing loss and the other hearing-related issues. With the help of the internet, you will be well-prepared for your first audiology appointment.