Volume 20 Issue 1

HOH-LD-News
Vol. 20, Issue 1
July 3, 2004

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Table of Contents
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- Article 1: SHHH Convention: Teamwork for Hearing Health Services
- Article 2: Current Research in Hyperacusis
- Article 3: Learn YOUR 100 Signs Online for Free
- Article 4: RNID Wins Best Overall Charity Award
- Classifieds
- Contact Information and Disclaimers

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Contact information and disclaimers are at the end of this newsletter.
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- Article 1: SHHH Convention: Teamwork for Hearing Health Services
by Cheryl Heppner
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Editor: Here's this week's installment in our continuing coverage of the 2004 SHHH Convention. Enjoy!

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Rocky Stone, founder of SHHH in 1979 and first Executive Director until 1992, has had an active 'retirement'. He's served as president of the International Federation of Hard of Hearing People and a Board member of the Cochlear Implant Club International. His workshop gave an introduction to his newest project: Teamwork for Hearing Health Services, a coalition of major hearing health service providers and their allies.

By Cheryl Heppner

Rocky became interested in cochlear implants because of his hearing loss and blindness. He says "the cochlear implant saved my life" and this is his motivation for wanting the cochlear implant industry to be healthy.

At one time the cochlear implant manufacturers were attacking each other. Rocky said that this only makes consumers more suspicious of cochlear implants in general. For years companies that manufactured hearing aids were doing the same thing. He talked to the industry about this, and after September 11, 2001 there was a wave of cooperation in the country.

Teamwork was formed to bring together major hearing health providers and manufacturers. It includes representatives of the three manufacturers of cochlear implants on the Board of Trustees. Among others involved are the International Hearing Society and Veterans Administration. Several individuals were appointed "to keep things honest" rather than representing an interest: Donna Winger, audiologist Dr. Robert Shannon, Pat Tomlinson for knowledge of the rehabilitation field.

Teamwork met in 2002 in Philadelphia. The American Academy of Audiology and International Hearing Society don't like to appear together due to a disagreement on education of hearing aid specialists vs. audiologists. Despite its refusal to join Teamwork, the American Academy of Audiology has sent representatives to every meeting. The Teamwork coalition avoids some issues like accreditation because they are too divisive.

Teamwork's first project was to work on cochlear implant reimbursement. This was a way to build a team, because cochlear implants benefit doctors, speech pathologists, and audiologists. The hearing aid industry also gave it support because there is a growing awareness that cochlear implants combined with hearing aids are helping consumers.

Consumer organizations have formed the nucleus of Teamwork. They include SHHH, AG Bell, ALDA and NAD.

When Teamwork gathered lobbyists to combat the Medicare plan to roll back the reimbursement for cochlear implantation, the American Academy of Audiology signed on with the International Hearing Society. Everyone got together to talk strategy and all major organizations also signed on. A letter was sent from the consumer point of view. The three cochlear implant companies worked together, visited CMS and educated them on what it costs to make a cochlear implant. They also told them that hospitals were losing $10,000 per procedure and as a result many hospitals were no longer providing cochlear implants.

Reimbursement increased slightly last year but hospitals are still losing money on this procedure.

Rocky thinks that a small effort in a big game can be successful over time. He said that he won't be around to see it successful but he is planting the seeds. He soon will bow out, but he has someone in mind to take his place.

Rocky has proposed presenting to the American Academy of Audiology next year on the subject of cochlear implants and hearing aids.

The core organizations have already discussed doing something with assistive devices and hearing aids. Teamwork needs to go to Congress on the whole issue of hearing aids. It's frustrating because each time Congress adjourns, those behind efforts to get coverage of hearing aids have to start all over again getting sponsors.

Medicare has a new program for mediation but they do not publicize it. You only learn about it if you complain to a doctor or whoever is paying the bill. At that point they are supposed to tell you about the mediation option. But if you look on the back of the Medicare form, the area where they tell you how much is paid has a section where you can appeal. It will go to a state agency which is supposed to call you and follow up.

Rocky suggests making some waves, saying that you need hearing assistance and seeing what happens.

SHHH had a lot to do with the creation of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). The organization was responsible for the largest number of comments during the comment period. Thirteen members of SHHH went to Congress, sat and stared at the members of Congress during the mark-up session. Senators Orrin Hatch and Ted Kennedy came down to see them afterwards, shook hands with them and said they had passed a bill they never thought would be passed.

Q: Have you thought about educating doctors and audiologists before they graduate and begin practicing? A; Rocky worked with graduate students at the University of Iowa and it was very beneficial. If we could penetrate that group all over the country, it would be very helpful.

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- Article 2: Current Research in Hyperacusis
by Robert Sandlin Ph.D.
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Editor: You may be unfamiliar with the term "hyperacusis". It refers to a condition in which sounds of normal volume are perceived to be abnormally, even painfully, loud. I don't think there has been a lot of research on this condition, but it seems that people are becoming more aware of it and research is increasing. This article is reprinted with permission from www.healthyhearing.com.

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What is the current status and probable future direction for research in hyperacusis?

The current level of research reflects a growing interest in hyperacusis. Early on, research emphasis was placed on tinnitus. There were a number of studies in which hyperacusis was mentioned but usually as a footnote. It wasn't until rather recently that hyperacusis was viewed as a separate clinical entity. Studies have shown that hyperacusis and tinnitus co-exist. That is, many patients with hyperacusis have debilitating tinnitus. However, some persons with normal hearing have severe hyperacusis.

There have been only a few studies outlining management strategies for hyperacusic patients. Current assessment indicates that the Jastreboff model for treating hyperacusis is the most widely accepted among practitioners. It is similar, in purpose, to the Jastreboff approach for treating tinnitus: Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT).

This is not to suggest that other approaches fail to provide benefit to those individuals with hyperacusis, but rather that the Jastreboff method has more data to support its claim. However, no one clinical approach has been sufficiently compelling to gain universal acceptance.

Although there has been an increase in the number of studies regarding hyperacusis, much more needs to done. Current research tends to deal with methods of treatment and outcome measures. More needs to be done to gain an understanding of the neuropsychological mechanism or mechanisms involved. Research is a dynamic process. Current research will serve as a foundation for future studies

In my opinion, future studies will reflect more sophisticated research methods and reasonable data analysis. Such studies will contribute to our understanding of the complex neural mechanisms responsible for the onset and perpetuation of hyperacusis. Sophisticated instrumentation has already been used to provide objective information about changes in brain activity in patients with specific disorders. For some tinnitus patients, fMRI studies have shown changes in activity within the limbic system. Similar studies can be done for the hyperacusic patient as well. We are just at the threshold of a major breakthrough in the use advanced imaging technology to provide objective evidence to clinical assumptions.

A provocative question: If hyperacusis is defined as reduced tolerance to external sounds and tinnitus is defined an acoustic-like sensation generated internally, does one infer that there are two different mechanisms, or are hyperacusis and tinnitus just unique manifestations of the same disorder? We don't know. I am confident that this question will be answered within the next few years. As we acquire more objective information about changes in brain function related to a specific disorder, the higher the probability that appropriate medicines, surgery, drugs and therapeutic strategies will be employed to ameliorate the severity of the problem.

In summary, I am optimistic about the future of hyperacusis research. These are exciting and challenging times for the audiologist. There will be new methods developed for the treatment of this perplexing disorder. There will be advances in every phase of patient management. We may never fully understand the intricacies of disorders of the auditory system, but future research will provide the diagnostic tools and therapeutic programs necessary to achieve maximum benefit to those individuals having hyperacusis.

BIO: Dr. Sandlin has been active in the field of audiology for more than forty five years. He served on the Scientific Advisory Board of the American Tinnitus Association for twenty years. He is semi-retired but maintains a keen interest in audiology.

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- Article 3: Learn YOUR 100 Signs Online for Free
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Editor: Very few hard of hearing or late-deafened people become fluent in sign language. For most people it doesn't make sense, because none of their friends or family use sign language. But we've long felt that most people with hearing loss would benefit if they and the folks in their support system know about 100 signs - to provide topic markers or quick communication from more than a few feet away, or when hearing aids are out. Here's a short article from NVRC News that talks about a free online ASL resource. They even have a section called "First 100 Signs", which has a lot of the signs YOU and your family and friends might find useful.

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The ASL University offers a series of self-paced online ASL lessons on the Internet. Lessons cover aspects of Deaf Culture, ASL grammar, and vocabulary. Dr. Bill Vicars developed the lessons as a public service. Bill is certified by the American Sign Language Teachers Association and has taught ASL course for over 15 years.

The website says that currently there are enough lessons to cover a level one college course. There is no fee unless you need testing and documentation.

The website also has more links, including:
Why study ASL?
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflections of an ASL student
Resources
Glossary
Products
Lessons
Signs
Culture
History
Terminology
Fingerspelling
Numbers

Go to: http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/index.htm

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- Article 4: RNID Wins Best Overall Charity Award
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While our focus is on hearing loss topics in the US, we do try to keep our readers informed of hearing loss happenings throughout the world. We've published several articles on RNID, the largest hearing loss charity in the UK. This press release announces their selection as Best Overall Charity for modernization of their audiology services. Note that this modernization includes the provision of advanced digital hearing aids, which they purchase for £55 (US$100).

For additional information, please contact Clarinda Cuppage at mediarelations@rnid.org.uk

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RNID, the largest organisation representing the nine million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK, yesterday won the prestigious Best Overall Charity Award for excellence in charity management for transforming an NHS Cinderella service. They also won the Healthcare and Medical Research Award. The Charity Awards are the premier awards recognising achievement in the Charity Sector and are organised by Charity Finance Magazine. Following a high impact campaign RNID has been managing the modernisation at over 300 hospitals across England, increasing patient satisfaction and delivering radical change to audiology services.

John Low, Chief Executive of RNID, comments, "It is great news that RNID's work on behalf of millions of people who need a hearing aid has been recognised by these two awards. Our work overwhelmingly demonstrates that the charity sector can have a huge impact on people's lives. Campaigning for change in the NHS and then modernising a Cinderella service demonstrates what the voluntary sector can achieve in partnership with Government to radically improve the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people. We were effective because we didn't whinge and come up with more problems, but instead offered solutions."

On receiving the awards last night, James Strachan, Chairman of RNID said, "This is a great tribute not only to so many who work within RNID but also to so many of our colleagues in the NHS. We, the voluntary sector, must become less timid in our dealings with Government. We need to show them how together we can change the world. I hope this public recognition will encourage many other charities to do the same."

In 1999 RNID research revealed that NHS audiology services were neglected and under funded. While five million people in the UK would benefit from having a hearing aid, only two million had one. And one third of the people who did have a hearing aid didn't use them because they struggled with outdated technology, which delivered poor sound quality and limited hearing benefit.

As a result, RNID mounted a major lobbying campaign to persuade the Government to offer more funding to audiology and eventually £125 million was committed to modernise audiology services in England over five years. RNID believed they were effective in their approach as they offered solutions, not just problems.

Ministers then asked RNID to manage the modernisation programme in partnership with the Department of Health. This was the first time a voluntary organisation had been asked to form a management partnership to deliver major change within the NHS.

A key component of the modernisation was achieving a radical reduction in the price of digital hearing aids. RNID led smarter procurement methods to secure modern digital hearing aids free of charge on the NHS. Using the bulk purchasing power of the NHS RNID negotiated a price of £55. Previously digital aids were only dispensed privately often costing up to £2,000 or more.

To date 267,000 advanced digital hearing aids have been fitted. Patient satisfaction has soared, and the management of NHS audiology departments has changed dramatically increasing efficiency. Over 130 of England's 160 Trusts, have had their audiology departments transformed through this initiative. Already 195,000 people have been fitted with digital hearing aids and the work continues. By 2005 all NHS audiology clinics in England will be modernised.

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- Classifieds
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One Event and three Employment Opportunities appear in this issue. (Ads appear after this brief table of contents.)

Event 1
National Asian Deaf Conference
Honolulu, Hawaii
August 4 - 8, 2004

Employment Opportunity 1
Health Care/Mental Health
The Jewish Foundation for Group Homes
Rockville, MD

Employment Opportunity 2
Various Positions
The Learning Center for Deaf Children
Various Locations in Massachusetts

Employment Opportunity 3
Executive Assistant
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Olympia, Washington

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Event 1
National Asian Deaf Conference
Honolulu, Hawaii
August 4 - 8, 2004
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The Deaf of the Pacific Rim in Honolulu Hawaii will be hosting the 4th National Asian Deaf Conference. The site of the Conference will be at the Ilikai Hotel, Pacific Ballroom on August 4th to 8th 2004. Our Pageant Committee has a Search for Ladies 18-27 to compete in the Miss NADC Competition. Our Special Events Committee has a Search for "Asian/Pacific Comedians" and "Asian/Pacific Folklore Storytellers". We have Exhibit space available for those interested in selling their special items. Contact us at mailto:dpr2k3@aloha.net for further information.

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Employment Opportunity 1
Health Care/Mental Health
The Jewish Foundation for Group Homes
Rockville, MD
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Are you looking for a career that will make a difference in the lives of others?

The Jewish Foundation for Group Homes is the place for you. JFGH, a non-profit organization that provides residential services for adults with disabilities, is seeking highly motivated and creative individuals to fill our Full-time Weekend residential counselor positions in one of our Rockville Group Homes. Qualified applicants MUST BE FLUENT IN AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE. Minimum requirements include: High School Diploma, at least one year experience in the area of mental health or human services, and a valid drivers license when required for job-related duties.

Hours available are:
weekend:
Friday 3:00pm - 11:00pm,
Saturday & Sunday 7:00am - 11:00

Sleepover required for this position
Friday 3:00pm - 11:00pm,
Saturday & Sunday 7:00am - 10:00
Monday 6:00am - 8:00am

We are also looking for individuals to work on an as needed (PRN) basis.

Qualified applicants send resume to:
Human Resources
Attention: Noreen McCurdy
JFGH, 6010 Executive Blvd., Suite 800,
Rockville, MD 20852

Fax to (240)290-0203
Or email to: mailto:nmccurdy@jfgh.org
Voice: 301-984-3839 ext 118 TTY 301-984-3449

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Employment Opportunity 2
Various Positions
The Learning Center for Deaf Children
Various Locations in Massachusetts
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Position Announcements
School Year 2004 - 2005

FRAMINGHAM CAMPUS
Teachers of the Deaf
Must be Massachusetts Teacher Certified or have the ability to become certified. ASL fluency essential.

Staff Interpreters
Preferred 1-2 years interpreting experience. State screened or nationally certified.

Occupational Therapist
Masters Degree preferred. Certified and eligible for licensure. Basic ASL skills required. 1-2 years of pediatric experience.

Speech/Language Pathologist
CCC and MA license required. ASL fluency required.

RANDOLPH CAMPUS
Teachers of the Deaf
Must be Massachusetts Teacher Certified or have the ability to become certified. ASL fluency essential.

WALDEN SCHOOL
Teacher of the Deaf
Must be Massachusetts Teacher Certified or have the ability to become certified. ASL fluency essential.

Child Care Workers
BA in Human Services or AA in Child Care,
1-2 years in direct child care experience. ASL fluency. Understanding of mental health and children's issues.

Breakfast Cook (summer)
Hours 6:00-9:00 M-F. Must be able to pass a CORI (criminal background check).
Must be dependable and reliable.

Overnight Child Care Workers
High School diploma and/or equivalent work experience. Strong communication skills, including ASL. Knowledge of mental health issues.

Overnight Child Care Supervisors
BA/BS. ASL fluency. 2 years direct child care experience in residential treatment program with Deaf children.

Please send resumes/references to:
The Learning Center for Deaf Children
Attn: Lynn Marshall
848 Central Street
Framingham, MA 01701
www.inquiries.com
Phone: 508-879-5110
Fax: 508-875-9203

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Employment Opportunity 3
Executive Assistant
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Olympia, Washington
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JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Classification: Administrative Assistant 5
Working Title: Executive Assistant
Salary Range: $38,580 - $49,380 plus benefits

Deadline: Until Filled

ODHH Profile: ODHH is organized under the Health and Rehabilitative Services Administration (HRSA) located within the Department of Social and Health Services, in Olympia, Washington. ODHH provides an array of services to the deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind communities throughout Washington State. Services include Telecommunication Relay Services, telecommunication equipment distribution, Region Service Centers on Deaf and Hard of Hearing contracts, videoconferencing sites, information & referral, outreach & training. There are approximately 506,000 individuals with a hearing loss in Washington, including 12,600 individuals who are profoundly deaf.

Duties: The Executive Assistant's responsibilities include, in brief, acting as the principal assistant for administrative matters to the Director of the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Accomplishes varied and complex projects; makes decisions and acts for supervisor in administrative matters. Conducts and coordinates the preparation of comprehensive studies on major projects within the agency including service integration initiatives and cross-administration collaboration, coordinating project teams Supervises clerical support personnel and delegate duties to provide clerical support to program and administrative areas. Coordinate the administrative functions of the strategic planning and budgeting process. Prepares and completes legislative bill analyses. Performs as the HR representative including responsibilities for the succession plan and employee development plan. Performs as the Interpreter Coordinator for the Director and ODHH. Act as the American Sign Language interpreter to the Director and other staff as needed. Make interpreter/captioning arrangements for both ODHH and Advisory Committee activities/functions. Serve as the Director's liaison to the ODHH/TAS Advisory Committee and any other committees/focus groups formed in association with ODHH. Qualifications: BA degree in business administration, public administration or closely- related field desired. Three years of increasing responsibilities in office administration and/or supervisory experience. Human resource experience desired.

Special Requirement: Fluency in American Sign Language and ability to interpret is required. May require interpreter certification. Must have three years full-time working experience and/or living with deaf and hard of hearing individuals in an environment of a cultural/linguistic minority: deaf culture.

Application: To apply, applicants need to follow the on-line application system through the Department of Personnel's website.

Applicants will need to complete both the application and the on-line exam. Be sure to indicate having Sign Language proficiency (Code 031).

About the position / completing application / taking online test:
http://hr.dop.wa.gov/statejobs/bulletins/CURRENT/AA5_ASL_highlightflyer.htm
http://hr.dop.wa.gov/statejobs/bulletins/CURRENT/13395_96_97oc.htm

Please also submit a Washington State employment application and current resume to:
Director Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
PO Box 45300
Olympia, Washington 98504-5300
email: rafferic@dshs.wa.gov

The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance in the application or testing process, or those needing the application or testing information in an alternate format may call (360) 664-1960 or (360) 664-6211 TTY.

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- Contact Information and Disclaimers
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