New Safety Protocol

  • All bags/belongings entering the Emergency Department will be searched.  It is suggested that patients only bring necessary items (e.g. Keys, ID, Phones)
  • All Patients entering the Emergency Departments will be Screened via a security wand
  • Patients entering the ED Treatment area will be provided a gown
  • Visitation Update - One visitor per patient (children may have both parents).  Visitors will be subject to wanding and are asked not to bring any belongings into the ED with them.  If they choose to bring in bags they will be subject to a search.
  • At this time, all protocols are not currently in effect at Athol Hospital. Full implementation is planned to begin in the coming days.

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Audiology

Contact Our Audiology Department

Audiologists are available Monday-Thursday from 8:00am-6:00pm and Fridays from 8:00am-2:00pm.

What is Audiology?

Audiology is the study of hearing disorders, including prevention, identification, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of a variety of hearing impairments.

Who Provides These Services?

Our staff consists of knowledgeable, skilled audiologists who are certified by the American Speech & Hearing Association, and licensed to practice in the state of Massachusetts and an experienced, licensed audiology assistant. 

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who provide patient-centered care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of hearing, balance, and other auditory disorders for people of all ages. They provide professional and personalized services to minimize the negative impact of these disorders, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life.

An audiology assistant is a person who, after appropriate training and demonstration of competency, performs delegated tasks that are prescribed, directed, and supervised by a certified and/or licensed audiologist.

What are Hearing Impairments?

Hearing Impairments are difficulties hearing sounds and/or understanding speech.  There are different types of hearing disorders, depending on where along the auditory track the disruption occurs. Hearing impairments may be caused by aging, chronic ear infections, heredity, birth trauma, ototoxic drugs, head injury, viral or bacterial infection, noise exposure, neurological impairment, and tumors. Intervention for hearing disorders is dependent upon thorough audiological assessment and patient education and counseling.