The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders within the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh with support from the Eye & Ear Foundation welcomes its first dedicated research audiologist who is working across the Department of Otolaryngology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and UPMC to improve patient care and education.
Jamie Katz, AuD, F-AAA, CCC-A., started in April. He will be leading a project reviewing over the counter (OTC) hearing aids to provide consumers an educational tool to help them select hearing aids for perceived mild to moderate hearing loss in adults 18 years and older.
When asked why this role is important, Katz said, “The recent passing of FDA regulations on OTC hearing aids has provided a new classification of hearing aids in the U.S. Many consumers do not fully understand the options that are available to them about the features and benefits of amplification and the introduction of OTCs has added to the confusion. However, more people are becoming familiar with the ramifications of untreated hearing loss on their overall health, especially regarding cognitive decline and want to pursue solutions. I have always stressed, in my career, that patient education is important when deciding health treatments/strategies whether it be for hearing loss or other health conditions.”
Katz would like to incorporate his clinical and hearing aid manufacturing experience to become an integral part of the research team and help contribute to the growth and success of not only this project, but future research as well.
“I always wanted to work on hearing aid research and although I worked in the hearing aid manufacturing realm, my employment positions never afforded me the opportunity to do so, and I like new challenges,” Katz said.
His respect for the research, work ethic, and faculty in the Departments enticed him to be part of the team. The PA native who lived in Pittsburgh for 12 years prior to moving to Florida for 18 years feels like he has returned home.
If you would like to know more information regarding OTC hearing aids or if you, a family member, or friend has perceived mild to moderate hearing loss and are 18 years and older, contact Katz at jbk63@pitt.edu or 412-383-1698.