To bridge these gaps, technology-driven solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) and tele-audiology are emerging as transformative tools for delivering equitable and personalized hearing care. In an engaging conversation with Dr. Asawari Savant from Elets News Network (ENN), Raja S., Founder and Managing Director of Hearzap, shares insights on how innovation is reshaping the hearing care landscape in India. Edited excerpts

Hearing care has evolved significantly in recent years. How do you see AI transforming the landscape of hearing care in India?

AI is revolutionizing hearing care by addressing key challenges such as accessibility and customization. In India, where hearing loss affects over 6% of the population, AI-driven solutions can bridge the gap by reaching underserved areas. AI-powered hearing aids, equipped with auto-adaptive technology, can adjust to diverse acoustic environments, from quiet rural settings to bustling urban railway stations. This ensures that patients benefit from tailored solutions regardless of where they live or work.

There is an increased shortage of qualified professionals in hearing care. How does AI help address this issue?

India faces a significant shortfall of hearing care professionals, with only one audiologist for every 100,000 people. AI, in collaboration with healthcare facilitators, extends services to remote and inaccessible regions. AI tools can assist in diagnostics, automate hearing assessments, and provide real-time adjustments, enabling professionals to deliver care more efficiently and effectively.

What role does tele-audiology or remote care play in empowering patients?

Tele-audiology empowers patients by offering remote consultations and real-time adjustments to hearing aids. This eliminates the need for in-person visits, saving time and making care more accessible. For instance, India’s internet penetration rate of 50% ensures that even patients in semi-urban areas can manage their hearing health from home. Continuous support through tele-audiology ensures personalized and consistent care, improving patient satisfaction and compliance.

How is AI impacting the skill sets required for audiologists and hearing care professionals?

AI is reshaping audiology by integrating digital tools and data analytics into daily practice. Audiologists now interpret complex data from AI-powered hearing aids to adjust settings remotely. This demands proficiency in machine learning and data-driven insights. Professionals must evolve alongside these technologies to deliver precise, efficient, and personalized care.

What challenges do professionals face in adopting AI tools, and how can they overcome these barriers?

The primary challenges include a steep learning curve, concerns about data security, and scepticism about AI complementing human expertise. These can be addressed through targeted training programs, emphasizing the synergy between AI and professional skills. For example, a recent study highlighted that 75% of healthcare professionals who received AI training reported improved patient outcomes and efficiency.

Are there specific AI-powered innovations that Hearzap offers to support audiologists and hearing care providers?

Hearzap offers a suite of AI-driven tools, including:

• Advanced diagnostics for faster and more accurate assessments.
• AI-powered hearing aids that adapt seamlessly to varied environments.
• A tele-audiology platform enabling remote assistance and monitoring.
• An AI system that matches clients with the most suitable hearing aids based on their preferences and needs.

These innovations ensure that audiologists can provide patient-centric care, blending technology with human expertise.

How is India positioned to adopt global advancements in AI for hearing care?

India is well-positioned to embrace AI-driven hearing care due to its growing digital infrastructure and healthcare investments, which reached $372 billion in 2022. The tech-savvy population and increasing demand for innovative healthcare solutions make AI-powered hearing aids more accessible. Initiatives like the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) create an ideal ecosystem for integrating AI into hearing care, ensuring personalized and efficient solutions for millions.

Also Read :- Redefining Healthcare

What do you see as the next big innovation in hearing care?

The future of hearing care lies in hyper-personalized experiences. AI-powered hearing aids will intuitively learn user preferences, automatically adapting to varied soundscapes. For example, they could prioritize amplifying speech in noisy restaurants or softening background noise in a quiet home setting. This level of customization will redefine user comfort and satisfaction, making hearing aids smarter and more effective.

What do hearing care professionals need to know before adopting new technologies?

Professionals must understand how emerging technologies enhance client outcomes and integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. Continuous training is essential to fully leverage these tools, ensuring better efficiency and optimal results. A study shows that 68% of healthcare providers using AI technologies reported higher patient engagement and improved care delivery.

With the rise of tele-audiology, how is AI helping bridge gaps in access to hearing care, particularly in rural and underserved areas?

AI enables remote assessments and ongoing monitoring through tele-audiology. This is crucial for rural India, where healthcare infrastructure is limited. For instance, 70% of India’s population lives in rural areas, yet only 25% of healthcare resources are available there. AI-based solutions provide timely diagnosis and treatment without the need for travel, ensuring equitable access to quality hearing care.

Can you share how Hearzap is leveraging technology to make hearing care more personalized and patient-friendly?

At Hearzap, we prioritize personalization and convenience. Our tele-audiology service offers remote consultations, while the Hearzap app empowers clients to monitor their progress and make adjustments anytime. These innovations ensure that hearing care is tailored to individual needs, making it more accessible and user-friendly.

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