An overview of World Health Organization guidance aiming to increase global access to critical hearing aid services

Abstract

OBJECTIVE : Equitable access to hearing aids and related services remains a global health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. A major barrier to access is the lack of diagnostic and rehabilitative services, which is substantially attributable to the persistent shortage of ear and hearing care specialists. This discussion article provides an overview of limitations in the ear and hearing care workforce, the relevance of task sharing to ear and hearing care, and a new, evidence-based World Health Organization (WHO) technical resource aimed at improving access to hearing aids worldwide. DESIGN AND STUDY SAMPLE : A synthesis of current research and expert opinion. RESULTS : First, this article describes the global shortage of qualified ear and hearing care specialists. Next, it describes how community-based care, supported by task sharing among trained non-specialist providers and qualified ear and hearing care providers, could overcome these workforce limitations, and describes the critical role of qualified ear and hearing care providers in task sharing. Finally, this article provides an overview of a WHO resource which provides practical information for hearing aid service provision in resource-limited settings. CONCLUSION : Innovative strategies to expand the ear and hearing care workforce are essential to advance efforts towards equitable access to hearing aids and related services.