Q1.

Some of the demographic data that could come in handy in the assessment of the need for hearing services in this case could comprise of occupation, age, and gender. With regard to gender, it should be noted that hearing loss happens to be less common in women – in comparison to men (Hull, 2013). On the other hand, age-related hearing loss is rather common. Thus, as an individual grows older, the more likely they are to have hearing impairment (Hull, 2013). Lastly, occupational noises also play a role in hearing loss. A good example in this case would be nightclub work.

Q2.

In an attempt to evaluate the need for hearing services in the community, various approaches could be used in the analysis of data in this scenario. The approach recommended on this front is named-entity recognition (NER). This approach would be most valid because, as would be expected, extracting the relevant information from the robust electronic health record of Timberline Health is likely to be a rather challenging undertaking. This is more so the case given the diverse data captured therein, i.e. ad hoc terminology, narrative texts, test results, etc.

Q3.

1. Have you ever paid a visit to an audiologist? Please answer YES or NO. If YES, please briefly explain the reason for your visit.

YES

NO

2. Have you at any point in your life been exposed to loud noises on a consistent basis?

YES

NO

3. Overall, how would you rate your hearing?

EXCELLENT

GOOD

FAIR

POOR

VERY POOR

4. Have you ever had an ear infection?

YES

NO

5. Do you hear better in one ear than in the other ear?

YES

NO

Q4.

The other factors which are likely to influence the need for hearing services in the community include, but they are not limited to; attitudes towards help seeking, income levels, and maladaptive behaviors of persons experiencing hearing difficulties.

References

Hull, R.H. (2013). Hearing and Aging. San Diego, CA: Plural Publishing.