Training pharmacy technicians to provide over-the-counter hearing aids in rural areas

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study focuses on improving access to hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss in rural Alabama and Mississippi by training pharmacy technicians. Given the limited availability of audiological services in these regions, the study aims to equip pharmacy staff with the necessary skills to assist patients in obtaining over-the-counter hearing aids. The intervention involves educational training for pharmacy technicians to ensure they can effectively guide patients in selecting and using these devices. By addressing the barriers to hearing healthcare, the study seeks to enhance the overall well-being of individuals affected by hearing loss.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Pharmacy technicians licensed to practice in the state of Alabama or Mississippi.
2. Pharmacy technicians who practice in rural communities of Alabama and Mississippi.
3. Adults 18 years of age with mild to moderate hearing loss and who live in rural communities of Alabama or Mississippi.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pharmacy technicians with hearing loss who could have prior understanding of care for those with hearing loss will not be included in the study.
2. Adults 18 years of age or older with typical hearing will not be included in the study.
3. Adults with hearing loss who live in urban areas of Alabama and Mississippi will not be included in the study.
4. Participants will be excluded if they have any medical condition resulting in cognitive impairment that results in an inability to complete the study tasks (e.g., mental health condition, stroke, head injury, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease)

Where it's running

• The Department of Communicative Disorders, Box 870242
  Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States Recruiting
• The Department of Communicative Disorders
  Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Marcia J Hay-McCutcheon, PhD — The University of Alabama
• Study coordinator: Marcia J Hay-McCutcheon, PhD
• Email: mhaymccu@ua.edu
• Phone: 205-348-4572

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.