Who is the healthcare professional that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders?

The healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders is an audiologist. Audiologists have extensive training in the auditory system, including how it functions and how various factors can affect hearing. They conduct tests to evaluate hearing capabilities, diagnose hearing loss, and provide appropriate treatments such as hearing aids or rehabilitation programs.

While otolaryngologists (often referred to as ENT specialists) also deal with ear-related issues, their scope extends beyond just hearing disorders to include a range of conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. Speech therapists focus primarily on speech, language, and communication disorders rather than specifically addressing hearing issues. Therefore, audiologists are the specifically trained professionals for diagnosing and treating hearing disorders.