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MASC 2004

A Comparison of Hearing Loss Prevention Programs

Lt Melissa Salzer

Hearing loss prevention programs, both in the military and in civilian organizations, have not been largely successful in preventing noise-induced hearing loss. Several studies have examined the characteristics of both successful and unsuccessful hearing loss prevention programs, and have attempted to identify the aspects that should be included to ensure that a program works. This presentation will briefly discuss some of the reasons that hearing conservation programs fail, and will outline major obstacles to success which must be overcome. Specific suggestions to improve the current Air Force model for hearing loss prevention will be discussed.

Three Years of Change (2000-2003) at Wilford Hall Medical Center

Col Ben Sierra

A complete overview of the programmatic changes executed at WHMC in the period of 2000-2003, this presentation will detail/discuss lessons learned all the way from pre-planning requirements, resourcing, execution, impact on patient population, to what to do when the unpredictable happens. A review and summary of each project/program currently in-place at WHMC will be presented to the audience. The presentation will provide detailed coverage and step by step hands on how to procure what you need when you need it. Please put on your thinking caps and come ready to participate in the discussion. Bring any questions and concerns you may have. You will not leave empty handed. The following is a partial list of the programs and projects that will be reviewed/discussed:

  • Booth Construction project - how to get what you want
  • Audiometric Equipment - facts and fallacies, specific recommendations on makes and models
  • Hearing Aids - how many manufacturers, audiologic rehabilitation course, etc
  • Cochlear Implants
  • Operating Instructions
  • And much, much, more
Wilford Hall Cochlear Implant Program Update and Demographics

1Lt Brandon Tourtillott

This presentation will discuss the current process and procedures for assessment of Cochlear Implants at the 59 MDW (Wilford Hall Medical Center), Lackland AFB. Although cochlear implantation of the hearing impaired is not new to the military the program at WHMC has been re-energized and is exploding into the largest program in the DoD. Demographic information will be presented on the program over the past 20 years. The presentation will also provide a brief discussion on current FDA criteria, candidacy assessment, devices used, and the role of the 59 MDW Cochlear Implant Board.

Wilford Hall Medical Center (WHMC) Balance Center: An Eye Toward the Future

Lt Jeff Graley

A look at the new Wilford Hall Balance Center and it’s vision of providing state of the art comprehensive vestibular assessments, while keeping an eye toward the future through research into the grossly under documented vestibular system.

A team consisting of Neuro-Otology and Audiology has combined to tackle this problem by providing state of the art comprehensive vestibular evaluation and treatment for the warfighter’s of the United States Armed Forces and other Tricare beneficiaries. Consults from all branches of service and from around the world are sent to Major (Dr.) Drew Horlbeck, Chief of Neuro-Otology at WHMC, and in conjunction with WHMC Audiology are evaluated and treated for a myriad of vestibular disorders.

In conjunction with the Air Force Research Laboratory and School of Aerospace Medicine located at Brooks City Base, the Balance Center is aggressively researching the effects of high gravity environments on a pilot’s vestibular system.

Hearing Aid Verification Protocol with Digital Hearing Aids

1Lt Jennifer Jones

This presentation will discuss the hearing aid verification protocol used for digital hearing aids with patients at Wilford Hall Medical Center (WHMC), Texas. The protocol includes the COSI, Quick SIN, and real-ear measures. The discussion of real-ear measurements will include a synopsis of the validity of certain real-ear systems currently available.

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