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Sponsored: Q & A with Karen Burkey, AuD, Senior Audiologist, Portage Medical Center

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Dr. Karen Burkey is currently seeing patients at the new audiology services office space at University Hospitals Portage Medical Center. Get to know Dr. Burkey and when you should visit for care:

Q: Can you tell the community about your role?

A: I provide general clinical audiology services, including full diagnostic hearing tests for young children through the senior population. UH Portage Medical Center Audiology Services also provides hearing aids. I can check ears to make sure they are healthy, and, if a medical referral is needed, I can help patients get to the right physician who can treat their condition.

Q: When should community members make appointments with you?

A: If you are having a hearing issue, it is best to come get checked out. Talk to your doctor about a referral for testing. Frequent issues for adults typically range from hearing loss to bothersome noises in ears. For children, I can test for concerns related to ear infections, delayed speech and language, abnormal hearing screenings, as well as general hearing concerns. We also offer free community hearing screenings several times a year.

Q: What is your favorite part about being an audiologist?

A: I enjoy taking care of people. I love to do the testing and find out what is going on, talking to patients, and helping them find solutions to their hearing problems. I recommend that people do not wait until the problem is severe to get tested. I am happy to guide people in the process of caring for any hearing issues they may experience.

Q: Is there anything new in your field people should be aware of?

A: There is research showing even mild untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of cognitive conditions including dementia, Alzheimer’s, and depression. People with mild hearing loss also have a higher risk of falling than those with normal hearing. At times this means we are recommending hearing aids earlier to, hopefully, slow progression of more serious risk factors.

New space at Portage Medical Center Audiology Services

  • One hour test and results
  • Soundproof test booths
  • Brighter more comfortable space
  • Separate counseling area to discuss results
  • Access to UH system of Ear Nose and Throat Institute specialists for next level care close to home

Dr. Burkey sees patients at:

UH Portage Medical Center Audiology Services
6847 N. Chestnut St, Ravenna, OH 44266

Make an appointment by calling, 330-297-2427

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AI Companions and Small-Town Life: Can Virtual Chatbots Help People Feel Less Alone?

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