Finding a suitable amplified stethoscope solution for medical professionals with hearing loss remains a challenge. Oaktree Products, a multi-line distributor of over 4000 hearing healthcare products, handles at least 12-15 inquiries a day from audiologists seeking information about amplified stethoscope product solutions and recommendations. With both the hearing instruments and stethoscope earpieces residing in the same location, things often get tricky. Even with a streamer, special considerations must be addressed like hearing instrument programming strategies, accessory needs, and hearing instrument style limitations for optimal performance.
With that in mind, the Oaktree Products website now offers a special resource section on amplified stethoscopes. The compiled information represents the most frequently asked questions posed by audiologists including background information on auscultation and considerations in the presence of audiometric needs. Amplified stethoscope options as a function of hearing instrument model (i.e custom versus open fit) both with or without a streamer are outlined along with suggestions for hearing instrument programming considerations for optimal success.
What is your take on amplified stethoscopes? Have you found viable amplified stethoscope solutions for medical professionals or medical students with hearing loss currently using hearing instruments? Do you have any advice for your fellow audiologists who may be interested in offering amplified stethoscopes in their clinical practice? Oaktree Products would like to hear about your experience, advice and/or questions you may have on amplified stethoscopes. Share your two-cents in the comments section of this blog as well as on the Oaktree’s Facebook Page or on Twitter using #AskOaktree
I had problems with the Thinklab-One (though it is an excellent device). I have not tried the E-Scope-II. The Littman has been a lifesaver for me. I do not use it with a streamer, but definitely worth a trial.
The Littman is an amplified stethoscope that is designed for non-hearing instrument wearers or those that don’t mind taking their hearing instruments out during auscultation. It is a great amplified stethoscope. Curious what the issue with TL-One has been as that seems to be extremely popular for hearing aid wearing and non-hearing aid wearing users.