Schedule
Game day #1 - Thursday, October 16
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Coffee, Tea and Bagels with Colleagues and Exhibitors
Enhancing your options in technology to provide excellence in patient care
(Select one module for each hour - two concurrent sessions)
9:00 - 10:00
Module A - Starkey Kyle N. Acker, Au.D.
Not all AI is created equal. Hearing aids have traditionally used machine learning to perform automated processing with limited success in complex listening environments, like speech in noise. Deep Neural Networks (DNN) combine machine learning capabilities with a neural network which improves accuracy in real world environments. The foundational differences in digital signal processing will be discussed along with the advances that DNN bring to commercially available hearing instruments today.
Module B – Innovations in Instrumentation - e3 Diagnostics - Mitch Mostardi, B.S.
Discover how to take your diagnostic capabilities to the next level with features in some of our latest equipment including on-site digital impression scanners, Wideband Tympanometry, Aided Cortical Testing, Audible Contrast Threshold Test, and more.
10:00 - 11:00
Module C – Oticon: Oticon Intent™: Audiological Innovations – Christine Boyer, Au.D.
Oticon emphasizes a comprehensive approach to counseling that supports the standard of care for hearing loss, focusing on patient motivation, communication, and personalized solutions. This includes using tools to assess patient needs and expectations, offering multimedia counseling resources, and utilizing technologies like Oticon Intent and Audible Contrast Threshold (ACT™). This course will provide suggestions for consumer-friendly language based on clear benefits when making a strong recommendation for premium technology as the standard of care.
Module D – Widex –Widex Allure: Precision Hearing Technology – Amanda Albertson, Au.D.
This course will explore the benefits of the new Widex cloud-based software and new chip benefits. Discover how to quickly, but effectively, achieve successful first fits with a streamlined process, intuitive interface, and advanced features to provide a fitting experience that is patient centered and focused on providing tangible benefits.
11:00 - 12:00
Module E – ReSound: Laurel Christensen, Ph.D. (Virtual)
This course provides an overview of the features and benefits of the new ReSound Savi and Vivia hearing aids. Built on decades of shared AI research and development across the GN Group, GN has pioneered a unique approach to AI that mimics the brain’s natural sound processing via a new Intelligent Focus feature to create a superior hearing experience in noise, offering all-day battery power and comfort without compromise.
Module F – Phonak – Peytra Gettings, Au.D.
Infinio products deliver exceptional sound quality from the first moment and clear speech from any direction thanks to purposeful innovations and the introduction of the industry’s first dedicated AI chip for sound processing inside a hearing aid. Join us as we discuss the science behind Infinio, explore the scientific evidence, and discuss the performance of the chip that makes the impossible possible, DEEPSONIC
——- Lunch ——-
1:00 - 2:30
Options in Implantable Devices: Nicole Maxim, Au.D. - Cochlear America and Melissa Sigmund, Au.D. - Advanced Bionics
The course will review candidacy for both cochlear implant and bone conduction implantable solutions. Guidelines for implantable devices, bimodal fittings, criteria for SSD devices, applications for bilateral conductive HL, access to telecoil and Bluetooth options, and CI options will be discussed.
2:30 - 3:30
Auracast & Hearing Loops and other technologies– Juliette Sterkens, Au.D.
Hearing aid technology has truly advanced and works more effectively than ever before. However, no matter how sophisticated technology may be, hearing aids do not restore hearing to normal-especially important for patients who go through life wearing occluding earmolds. Learn how difficult listening situations for those with and without hearing aids can be overcome and what proven technologies (hearing loops, other current assistive technologies, and soon Auracast) can help your patients hear their best.
3:30 - 5:30
Practice Round Table - Third party administrators and the impact on patient care: Candy McGinnis, Au.D. – Moderator
Panelists include: Sarah Hoesuch, Au.D., Doug Kloss, Au.D., and Melissa Dintelman Wittman, Au.D.
With the rising changes in insurance coverage through third-party administrators, many audiologists struggle to weigh the pros and cons of joining. While the advantage plans are increasing the number of people to address their hearing loss in a cost-effective manner, does the reduced reimbursement make it cost effective for the provider as well? We are asking a few practical questions and opening a panel discussion to shed more light on the third-party payors and the impact on patients as well as practices.
SubTotal CEU hours for Day 1: 7 Hours
5:30 - 7:30
Adjourn to Watershed Hotel - Wisconsin Academy of Audiology Huddle Social Hour
Game day #2 - Friday, October 17
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Coffee, Tea and Bagels with Colleagues and Exhibitors
8:00 - 8:20 - Catherine Conely, Au.D. - Welcome and Logistics
8:20 - 8:45 - Veronica Heide, Au.D. President
8:45 - 9:00 - Break
9:00 - 10:00
Influencing and Engaging Marketing Strategies – Katie Armatoski, Au.D.
This course provides audiologists with practical strategies to leverage social media effectively, enhance community visibility, and attract new patients. Participants will learn how to craft engaging content, streamline posting processes, and build lasting trust with their local audiences.
10:00 - 11:00
Sound Solutions: The Audiologists’ Role in Effective Hearing Conservation –- Hannah Formella Zdroik, Au.D.
This presentation will provide audiologists with knowledge and practical tools to address hearing conservation in diverse environments, ranging from industrial settings to the music industry. Participants will also explore the growing impact of telehealth in enhancing access to hearing care, with a particular focus on its relevance to the music industry and patients who benefit from hearing healthcare services through telehealth offerings included in their insurance plans. Providers will leave with a deeper understanding of how to enhance their practice through effective hearing conservation strategies and useful resources, ensuring broader access to quality care for all patients.
11:00 - 12:00
Worker’s Compensation – What do I need to know? – Doug Johnson, J.D., Nick Johnson, J.D., Ann Rabe, Au.D.
Do you know where to start in referring your patients with occupational hearing loss to file a claim for Worker’s Compensation? This course will provide the who, what, where, when and how of this process. Learn how to identify appropriate referrals for Worker’s Compensation based on case history and audiological evaluations. Learn how to obtain and complete the WKC-16-B form for Worker’s Compensation.
LUNCH – Networking with colleagues ––
Manufacturer’s 10 minutes of fame
1:00 - 2:00
Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome Evan Cretney, M.D.
Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome (EVAS) is a common congenital inner ear anomaly leading to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children. This presentation will cover the clinical features, diagnostic workup, and management strategies for EVAS. Children with EVAS often present with progressive or fluctuating SNHL, which can be sudden and triggered by minor head trauma or pressure changes. Diagnosis is confirmed through high-resolution CT or MRI of the temporal bones, using the Cincinnati criteria for EVA measurement. Genetic testing for SLC26A4 mutations is recommended, especially in suspected cases of Pendred syndrome. Management includes regular audiometric monitoring, hearing aids, or cochlear implants for severe cases, and preventive measures to avoid head trauma. This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of EVAS to enhance early detection and effective management in pediatric patients.
2:00 - 3:00
Eric Hulse, Au.D. & Megan Wisneski, Au.D. – Vestibular Innovations in Assessment
This course will cover the cochlear and vestibular manifestations of enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) syndrome, and appropriate management. Case studies will be reviewed.
3:00 - 4:00
Marcia Dewey, Au.D. - Tinnitus as a Symptom, not a Disease
This course provides audiologists with a broader understanding of tinnitus and sound sensitivities. We will focus on the difference between objective/subjective tinnitus and discuss the central gain theory of hyperacusis to view these as neural generated symptoms (neuroplastic). We will discuss how moving away from a pathologic/structural model can help patients reduce their fear and anxiety and begin to engage with tinnitus and sounds from a lens of safety. The messages that patients receive about these symptoms are crucial in helping them to move either toward recovery or stuck in helpless and hopeless cycle of feeling broken. Will also incorporate how to present this view to patients with tinnitus that is related to structural issues.
SubTotal CEU hours for Day 2: 6Hours
4:00 – 4:30
Refreshments, Wrap-Up and WAA Business Meeting
State of our Profession in WI - Wisconsin Academy of Audiology Board
Veronica Heide, Au.D. – President
Candy McGinnis, Au.D – Vice President
Catherine Conley-Mink, Au.D – Secretary
Katie Armatoski, Au.D – Treasurer
Doug Kloss, Au.D – Sargent of Arms
Christine Otte, Au.D - Member outreach
Meredy Hase, Au.D – Historian
Find out what our Wisconsin Academy of Audiology has accomplished in the past year. Updates on State licensure law changes and Committee reports: cCMV, WKC16-B, Medicare handbook will be presented. Goals for 2025-2026 will be presented. Members will have opportunities to address the Board and active participation is encouraged.
Closing Remarks
Total hours for both days 13.0 hrs. (1.3 AAA CEUs)