News and Updates: August
August has been packed with updates from the tinnitus community, here are a few that caught our eye:
BAA unveils new Scope of Practice
This week, BAA revealed the new Scope of Practice which defines the role of audiology professionals and means you can spot new opportunities for career and personal growth.
The latest update to the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) Scope of Practice for Audiology Professionals is now available. As tinnitus is a vital part of audiology care, we recommend that every professional in the sector take a look.
The Scope of Practice sets out:
- The clinical and professional capabilities of audiology professionals.
- Expectations of audiologists in practice.
- Clear links between career levels and professional capabilities.
Developed by the BAA Education portfolio, comprising professionals from various sectors and specialisms, the Scope of Practice will be reviewed every three years and revised as needed to reflect developments in audiology.
Audiology professionals should all be aware of, and operate within, their scope of practice. But it’s also helpful to identify training and development needs to ensure you’re delivering the best quality care, and look for opportunities to take that next step.
Following on from this work, BAA will be developing a guide to how the Scope of Practice can be applied specifically to the NHS, including relating the career levels to AfC bandings, effective job planning for colleagues and indicative appointment timings to support with workforce planning.
Want to take part in tinnitus research?
If you could take a pill to help with your tinnitus, what would it do?
Students at the University of Surrey are conducting an MSc research study to understand what people with tinnitus most want from future drug treatments.
Your response will help guide pharmaceutical research towards developing effective medications for tinnitus
BSA & NACSG: Public Consultation on Training Standards
BSA and NACSG have opened their public consultation on minimum standards for all aspects of aural care – offering you the chance to have your say.
Wax removal might be the hot topic right now, but minimum training standards are vital for every aspect of care.
The rapid growth in training opportunities, not to mention ever-evolving technologies and increasing rates of tinnitus, can make it a confusing world to navigate. That’s why the British Society of Audiology (BSA) and National Aural Care Strategy Group (NACSG) have launched this public consultation.
As a professional, your insights and experiences are invaluable. If you or your organisation helps provide tinnitus care in some way, your opinion on this topic matters.
The full list of BSA public consultations, including this one, is available at the link below.