This session is developed by, and presenters invited by, Hearing, Tinnitus and Vestibular Science. There are disparities in hearing aid use associated with patients’ geographic (rural) location, income level, insurance status, and race/ethnicity. Telehealth addresses geographic barriers by allowing patients and providers to connect remotely via the Internet. Community Health Workers (CHWs) address social determinants that negatively impact health. This is the first US-based study to combine telehealth and CHWs to improve access to hearing aid services. The study took place in a southern Arizona US/Mexico border community. Participants were Hispanic/Latino adults ages >50 with hearing loss. Experimental group participants were assisted by trained CHW facilitators; control group participants were assisted by trained student (non CHW) facilitators. Here, we present qualitative results from interviews with participants following telehealth services. Thematic analysis revealed access barriers, benefits of telehealth, and CHWs engaging in patient-centered care. This study provides feasibility data for a potentially scalable service delivery model to reduce hearing healthcare disparities.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the roles and responsibilities of patient-site facilitators in hearing aid fitting services delivered via synchronous telehealth
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