Genetics of Hearing Loss: Core Concepts, Communication, and Collaborative Care

Session Description

Genetic etiologies play a substantial role in hearing loss and deafness, with the majority of pre-lingual hearing loss (HL) due to an underlying genetic cause. Identification of a genetic diagnosis of HL drives tailored medical, audiologic, and psychosocial care for persons with HL and their families. With increasing knowledge of genetic etiologies of HL, audiologists play a crucial role in the incorporation of genetics into care of persons with HL and their families. In this session, attendees will learn approachable and relevant information on genetics of HL from a board-certified genetic counselor with expertise in HL and deafness. Be ready to build your knowledge of genetics and HL, increase your confidence in communicating with patients and providers about genetics, and identify ways to incorporate genetic information into your audiology practice through collaborative care.