You may hear from friends, teachers, or professionals about specific products or procedures for hearing loss, balance, communication and/or swallowing problems. It can be perplexing to know what's right for you, your family member or an individual for whom you are caring. It's advisable not to rely solely on word of mouth or promotional articles.
If you want to learn more about a product or procedure, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends that you consult an ASHA-certified audiologist or speech-language pathologist. You may also obtain generic information from the company or individual that developed the product or procedure by reviewing their website or published materials. To help guide you, consider the following questions:
Is a qualified audiologist or speech-language pathologist providing the product or procedure?
Qualified audiologists and speech language pathologists hold at least a master's degree, the certificate of clinical competence (CCC) from ASHA and state licensure, where required.
What is the specific application of this product or procedure and what is the expected outcome?
You should have a clear understanding of the purpose of the product or procedure and the expected outcome and benefit.
For which client/population was the product or procedure developed?
The material should state for what group (i.e., age and type of disorder) it was developed. Is there research-based evidence to support its effectiveness with this group or others? Is there research to support the use of the product or procedure on other populations?
How should the product or procedure be used?
Does the product or procedure information clearly describe how it works and provide a rationale for why it works? Some products (e.g., hearing aids, assistive communication devices) must be customized or individually fit to meet your specific needs.
What evidence does it give about how it improves communication, balance, or swallowing problems? What outcomes can I reasonably expect?
Does it provide data about the outcomes of the product or procedure? Beware of "miracle cures" or claims of 100% success, keep in mind that outcomes may not be the same for everyone.
Has research about this product or procedure been published in peer reviewed professional journals?
Research published in a professional journal has the most credibility. Claims made in promotional materials or reported in the popular press (i.e., newspapers, television and magazines) should be supported by research and interpreted with caution.
What is the credibility of the developers of the product or procedure?
If it is a company, how long has it been in existence? Have there been complaints to state or local Better Business Bureaus or consumer protection agencies? If a speech-language pathologist or audiologist developed the product or procedure, have there been complaints to the state licensing boards for speech-language pathology and audiology.
Are there similar products or procedures currently available? How do they compare in performance and cost?
Performance should be your most important consideration. Cost may be a consideration if other less costly products or procedures are available, and if they compare favorably in benefits and credibility.
What are the potential risks/harms associated with this product or procedure?
What possible negative outcomes could occur as a result of using this product or procedure weighed against the potential benefit?
Is there a need for specialized training or a need to supplement the product or procedure?
Will you or your family member or caregiver need specialized training to use or improve benefit from this product or procedure? Is this a commitment that you or your family member or caregiver can make?
Is this product or procedure experimental?
Some products and services may be in an experimental stage and can only be provided by specific researchers who have approval by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for the Protection of Human Subjects.
Is the product approved by a government regulatory agency?
Some products must have approval by a federal government regulatory agency. You may wish to call the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 800-532-4440 or another agency which may have regulatory authority over the specific product.
Is there a guarantee, return policy, or trial period?
Check the product information for warranty, repair, and return policy. In many states there are trial period provisions and lemon laws. If there is a trial period associated with the product, find out the time limitations, policies, liability, and fees associated with return or damage to the product during the trial period.