Audiology in Brazil.
The profession of audiology took root in Brazil nearly a half a century ago and has since blossomed into a flourishing, well-developed field. Currently, audiologists in Brazil work at private institutions, including private medical practices and dedicated speech and hearing clinics. They are also employed in a wide array of public institutions, including community clinics, elementary schools, colleges, and universities. In both the private sector and health clinics, audiologists perform diagnostic evaluations of auditory and vestibular disorders, select and fit hearing aids, and provide aural rehabilitation. At the public level, they assist with workers' health programs, dispense hearing aids, and aural rehabilitation. There is always room to grow, however, and the future of audiology in Brazil holds both challenges and opportunity. The following article will sketch the development of audiology training and practice in Brazil, provide a picture of how the field stands today, and summarize the unique challenges which the profession faces in this large and diverse nation.
Bevilacqua
Maria Cecilia
MC
Universidade de São Paulo, Centro de Pesquisas Audiológicas, Brazil. cecilia@implantecoclear.com.br
Novaes
Beatriz Caiuby
BC
Morata
Thais C
TC
D001298:Audiology / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D001938:Brazil / Q000453:epidemiology; D012048:Correction of Hearing Impairment / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D005544:Forecasting; D006311:Hearing Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D012574:Schools / Q000706:statistics & numerical data