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Tool · Hearing Technology Pathway Explorer

Explore hearing technology options to ask about

This educational tool helps adults with hearing loss map out broad categories of technology—like hearing aids, implants, remote microphones, captions, public venue audio (including Auracast), and smartphone features— that might be reasonable to ask about with your clinicians. It does not decide candidacy or replace a medical evaluation.

5–8 minutes Mobile-friendly Adults, caregivers, & clinicians
Important: This pathway explorer is for education only. It cannot diagnose, decide whether you are a candidate for any device, or replace advice from your care team. If your clinicians’ recommendations differ from anything you see here, their advice always wins.
Safety first: If you have a sudden change in hearing (hours–3 days), severe new dizziness/vertigo, new neurologic symptoms, or major injury, use the Emergency: Hearing, Tinnitus, and Balance Safety Guide.

Tell us where you are right now

Answer a few short sections about your hearing situation. As you go, the panel on the right suggests technology categories to ask about with your audiologist or implant team.

Section 1 (required safety screen)

Urgent Symptoms & Safety Check

Before exploring hearing technology, we must check for symptoms requiring emergency medical evaluation or specialty clearance.

Section 2 (required)

Where are you right now in your hearing journey?

Choose the situation that feels closest.

Speech Clarity & Hearing Test Scores (Optional)

If you have worn hearing aids or have your audiogram results, this helps evaluate whether a cochlear implant evaluation may be a helpful conversation. You can also review your results using our Audiogram Guide.

Section 3 (optional)

What’s hardest right now?

Pick all that apply. This helps match technology ideas to real situations.

Section 4 (optional)

What devices or supports are already in your life?

Pick all that sound familiar. “No devices yet” is exclusive.

Section 5 (required)

How ready are you to change things?

There is no “right” answer. Readiness helps shape whether the pathway leans toward exploring, fine-tuning, or bigger moves.

Tip: This tool cannot determine clinical candidacy, but it helps you enter your visit with clear questions and realistic options.

Suggested Next Steps

Prepare for Your Appointment

Get personalized questions and conversation guides for your visit with an audiologist.

Use Hearing Coach →

Explore Hearing Devices

Compare OTC devices, prescription hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive technology.

Explore Devices →

Urgent Symptoms?

Sudden hearing loss in 72 hours, severe dizziness, or ear pain requires prompt medical evaluation.

Emergency Guide →

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Medical Disclaimer: This resource is developed by UCSF Audiology for educational and informational purposes only. It does not substitute for clinical medical advice, formal diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed audiologist, otolaryngologist (ENT physician), or primary care doctor regarding hearing health decisions. If you experience sudden hearing loss (within 24–72 hours), severe acute vertigo, or ear trauma, seek immediate medical evaluation at an emergency department or urgent care clinic.