User interface for automated diagnostic hearing test

Abstract

A method and system (100) for a multimedia user interface for automated diagnostic audiometry testing are disclosed. The system (100) has three main components, namely, a computer (102), and a display screen (104) and at least one transducer (106). The computer includes a user interface that provides a means for the patient to interact with the automated hearing test to complete the tests. The patient is given guidance and instructions for each test and can page the operator for assistance at any time. Warning messages and progress indicators are provided to help the patient judge his progress. This arrangement allows the patient to test his own hearing with minimal or no assistance from an audiologist or other hearing health professional. The user interface also allows the operator to configure the automated auditory test as desired.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of audiology and, in particular, to an automated method and system user interface for assessing and analyzing hearing loss. Background technique

[0002] According to recent studies, more than 20 million people in the United States alone have some degree of hearing loss. The number of people worldwide who have some degree of hearing loss is estimated to be much greater. Not surprisingly, many of these individuals are unaware that they have suffered from hearing loss. This decline in hearing ability can be caused by several factors, including age, health, occupation, injury, and disease. This hearing loss can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life, impaired relationships, reduced employment opportunities, and reduced productivity. Failure to treat hearing loss will worsen these effects. According to the Better Hearing Institute, untreated hearing loss costs about $56 billion annually i...

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