2024 Symposium

Shruti Kulkarni, J.D.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Sponsored by: 

Shruti Kulkarni is the Senior Director of Regulatory and Government Affairs and Associate General Counsel for Amplifon Americas. In this role, Ms. Kulkarni is responsible for developing and executing Amplifon’s advocacy, policy, and alliance development efforts across U.S. and Canada. 

Prior to joining Amplifon, Ms. Kulkarni was a partner at a healthcare law firm, where she provided counsel to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and not-for-profit organizations on federal and state legal, legislative, regulatory, and enforcement matters. In this capacity, she analyzed existing and proposed legislation, regulations, and policies; drafted legislative and regulatory language; and educated state and federal legislators and policy makers.

Ms. Kulkarni has 20 years of experience in the health care industry working in sales, marketing, and government affairs positions, and at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, where she worked in the Commissioner’s Office for the Office of Policy.

Ms. Kulkarni has a Marketing degree from Saint Joseph’s University and a Juris Doctor degree from George Mason University School of Law.

Seminar: Regulatory Updates on OTC Hearing Aids: What’s Happening Now & What’s New  –  Wednesday, May 8, 2:10 – 1:00pm

The impact of OTC hearing aids on the hearing care industry worldwide is now unfolding. These devices have the potential to improve accessibility and affordability. However, there has also been an increase in consumer confusion, and an uptake of bad actors bringing potentially harmful products to market. As such, the role of the hearing care professional becomes more important than ever. Hearing Instrument Specialists(H.I.S) must consider the impact of OTC hearing aids on consumers, practitioners, and the broader hearing care ecosystem. This presentation will explore the evolution of the hearing care landscape, regulatory requirements governing OTC hearing aids, lessons learned, and the impact of OTC hearing aids worldwide.

Megan Quilter, AuD.                                                                                                                                                                                                        Sponsored by: 

Megan Quilter, Au.D is a Lead Audiologist with GN Hearing Global Audiology team and primarily focuses on research, adult and pediatric amplification and cochlear implants. Her background includes clinical adult and pediatrics, neuro-vestibular audiology, amplification, and pediatric and adult equipment manufacturing. Dr. Quilter effectively communicates with a variety of levels of key opinion leaders, customers, colleagues, and patients. Dr. Quilter currently holds a Doctorate of Audiology and resides in Chicago, Illinois.

Seminar: ReSound Beyond: Next-Gen Breakthroughs and Auracast  –  Wednesday, May 8, 2:10 – 3:10pm

Delve into the cutting-edge advancements from ReSound, unveiling the next-generation innovations and the research and evidence underpinning these groundbreaking solutions. Explore the evolution of wireless communication with Auracast, poised to revolutionize patient experiences and unlock unprecedented possibilities. Embark on a journey towards a transformative new era for your patients.

Victoria McLeod, M.Cl.Sc.                                                                                                                                                                                               Sponsored by: 

Victoria has over 30 years of experience in the audiology industry, both clinically and with manufacturers. She joined the Starkey Canada team in May 2022 as Manager of Training, Education, and Instructional Design, where she leads a team of trainers in supporting customers’ training and educational needs. Victoria is passionate about creating engaging and effective training support for learners.

Victoria holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders from Minot State University and a master’s degree in audiology from Western University. She is dedicated to helping customers and patients receive the best possible care and support.

Seminar: Elevate the Hearing Experience – Artificial Intelligence in Hearing Solutions  –  Wednesday, May 8, 3:30 – 4:30 pm

In this session we’ll delve into the transformative realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hearing instrument industry.  We’ll begin by shedding light on AI – clarifying its role and impact in our field. You’ll gain insights into how AI is currently revolutionizing the hearing aids you prescribe, through features like adaptive environmental tuning, learning user preferences, and advanced audio processing techniques.  But there’s more on the horizon. We’ll also give you a glimpse into the future, discussing the cutting-edge trends and potential leaps in AI-driven hearing technology. Discover how these upcoming innovations might reshape your practice, enhance patient experiences, and redefine the future of the hearing aid industry. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned practitioner, this session is set to expand your understanding and fuel your enthusiasm for the evolving intersection of AI and hearing healthcare. Embark with us on this explorative journey into the next frontier of hearing aids, where innovation meets practical application!

Andreas Seelisch, M.Sc.                                                                                                                                                                                                  Sponsored by: 

Andreas graduated Western University with a Bachelor of Health Sciences in 2006 and a Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2008. He completed his thesis on frequency compression technology at the National Centre for Audiology and published on this topic and others. Andreas is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration from the Jack Welch Management Institute. He gives regular community talks, scientific presentations, media reports, and post-secondary academic lectures. In addition to fifteen years of clinical practice as an Audiologist, Andreas is also the Director of Audiology at Hearing Solutions, Ontario’s largest independent hearing healthcare provider, and President-Elect for the Canadian Academy of Audiology.

Seminar:  Improved CounSELLing: The Ethical and Patient Focused Application of Sales Principles to Audiology  –  Wednesday, May 8, 4:40 – 5:40pm

Clinicians train as competent healthcare providers; however, sales skills are often outside of the curriculum and even feel distasteful to some. Yet, to treat hearing loss effectively, they must sell patients their ideas, services, and devices. This presentation shows clinicians that counselling skills align closely with accepted sales principles, allowing them to adapt to proven frameworks quickly. Referencing numerous publications, we draw parallels between our profession and the field of consultative sales using clinical examples. By the end, clinicians will be able to choose and adapt a framework that suits their style of practice to be effective clinicians and salespersons.

Patricia Auger, AuD.                                                                                                                                                                                                        Sponsored by: 

Patricia received her B.A. (Psychology) from McGill University in 2001, her M.H.Sc (Audiology) from the University of Ottawa in 2004, and her AuD from Salus University in 2009.  She gained both public and private clinical audiology experience in Calgary Alberta, before joining Sonova over 17 years ago. With Sonova, Patricia has worked internationally in New Zealand before joining the Canadian team.  She has held multiple roles within the company including Sales Representative, Trainer, Audiology Support, Audiology Manager and finally Director of Audiology, Sonova Canada.  Patricia grew up in Montreal Quebec, and now lives in Ottawa Ontario, with her husband and 3 children.

Seminar:  Strength of Evidence: Evaluating the Research  –  Wednesday, May 8, 5:50-6:35pm

Audiological research comes in many different forms. This engaging and interactive presentation will make it easier to understand and evaluate the findings. An overview will be given of different types of clinical evidence and research designs. A discussion will be had as to why certain evidence is stronger than others, and why this is important when evaluating research in Audiology. A brief overview of Phonak’s latest products will be given while sharing some of the research that has been published to support the products.

Keith Darrow, PhD, AuD.                                                                                                                                                                                                Sponsored by: 

Dr. Keith N. Darrow emerges as a prominent figure in the field of hearing healthcare, boasting an illustrious background as a Harvard Medical School and M.I.T. trained neuroscientist, clinical audiologist, professor, and bestselling author. With extensive clinical experience, including a fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and co-founding the Hearing and Brain Centers of America, Dr. Darrow is at the forefront of the Excellence In Audiology movement, aiming to improve the lives of the 1.5 billion people worldwide living with untreated hearing loss. Renowned as a national speaker and trainer, Dr. Darrow’s research conducted at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has garnered widespread recognition, with over 1200 citations.

Seminar:  Considerations for Cognitive Screenings in Hearing Healthcare  –  Thursday, May 9, 8:45 – 9:45am

In the rapidly evolving landscape of hearing healthcare, emerging research highlights significant correlations between hearing loss, tinnitus, and consequential changes in both the physiology of the brain and cognitive function. Thus, hearing healthcare providers play a pivotal role in holistic patient assessment, including the impact that hearing loss may have on cognition. This 1-hour course delves into crucial considerations for integrating cognitive performance into the evaluation of adult patients. Key topics include:

1. Underlying Changes in Hearing and Cognition: Explore the intricate relationship between aging, hearing, and cognitive processes.
2. Best Practices for Cognitive Screenings: Examine current best practices in cognitive screenings, navigating the terrain of objective versus subjective measurements.
3. Referral Considerations: Learn how to identify signs of cognitive issues in patients and understand the considerations for referrals. Explore the process of directing patients suspected of cognitive challenges to appropriate healthcare professionals, including Primary Care Physicians (P.C.P.), neurologists, or geriatric specialists.

Brad Stewart, AuD.                                                                                                                                                                                                          Sponsored by: 

Dr. Brad Stewart is an audiologist and independent practice development consultant. He helps practices treat more patients with less stress through better systems, leadership, and culture.  Brad holds a Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of North Texas. 

He founded a house call-based private practice in 2014 which he quickly grew to over $1mm treatment revenue serving nearly 100 senior living communities. Over time, he added two office locations and a range of unique clinical services, and built a multi-disciplinary clinical team.

In 2021 he shifted his strategic focus towards simplification and efficiency. He refined his practice and removed himself from day to day operations, leading to its successful sale at the end of 2021. His experiences in building, optimizing, and exiting from his practice are the foundation of his consulting, training, and products, which are used in over 500 offices across North America and internationally.

Seminar: ReSound Beyond: Next-Gen Breakthroughs and Auracast  –  Wednesday, May 8, 2:10 – 3:10pm

When you think of the word “sell”, what comes to mind? Do you have a negative connotation of sales, or are you business-minded and focused on growing your sales?What if we’re actually asking the wrong questions? What if we shouldn’t be selling at all?  

In this thought-provoking and practical session, audiologist and practice consultant Brad Stewart, AuD reveals a surprising evidence-based approach to patient consultations that flips the idea of selling on its head. You’ll leave with immediately applicable case presentation strategies that increase your confidence as a provider, while enhancing your credibility and trust with patients.

Kellina Powell, BA(Psych), Author                                                                                                                                                                               Sponsored by: 

Kellina holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University and a post-graduate certificate in Mental Health and Addiction. As an Amazon best-selling author of “Everyday I Am Just Deaf,” a life coach, advocate, and international speaker, she is on a mission to empower and create opportunities for young adults with disabilities by educating leaders about the deaf community.

An important part of this work is the vital role audiologists play in the lives of individuals with hearing impairments.  Kellina has made it her mission to educate audiologists on the art of being better listeners and more attuned to the needs of their clients drawing on her unique perspective working with the same audiologist since she was 4 years old.  This positions her as an invaluable resource for audiologists seeking to enhance their customer relationships

Seminar: Nurturing Your Mental Health as Hearing Practitioner  –  Thursday, May 9, 11:15-12:15pm

We delve into the very essence of what it means to be an entrepreneur while taking care of your mental well-being. As business owners, we understand the unique challenges that come with the territory. This session isn’t just about strategies; it’s a genuine conversation about the importance of striking a balance, managing stress, and building resilience in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship.

Douglas Baldwin, AuD.                                                                                                                                                                                                    Sponsored by: 

Douglas Baldwin was born and raised in the US state of Wyoming. After university, he spent 12 years in clinical audiology practice in Montana. His experience ranges from educational and industrial audiology, pediatric assessment and rehabilitation, diagnostic audiology, balance assessment and hearing instrument dispensing. Douglas’ educational background comprises a BS in Psychology from Brigham Young University, a MS in Audiology from University of Wyoming and an AuD in Audiology from Arizona School of Health Sciences – A.T. Still University. Douglas moved to Switzerland in 2006 to join the Marketing Audiology and Education team as an audiology manager at Sonova headquarters. In early 2012 he joined the international Unitron Team as an audiology and training manager. He presented on general audiology topics as well as Unitron products, software and tools in over 50 countries around the world. In February of 2018 he relocated to Canada, where he now has the role at Unitron headquarters as Sr. Manager, Global Audiology Marketing.  Douglas has discovered that despite huge variability in professional expertise and delivery models, we can use technology and expertise to help people on their journey to better hearing have a transformative hearing care experience.

Seminar:  Important Megatrends for the Hearing Industry: Personalization and Big Data  –  Thursday, May 9, 4:15-5:00pm

This presentation will share information about important megatrends of particular relevance for our industry. The topic of personalization – why it is relevant and what are we doing in this area. Big Data is another trending topic we hear about all the time these days and this presentation will share some interesting findings from a data-mining project on factors that influence hearing aid wearing time.

Sharad Ojha, MSc Eng, MBA                                                                                                                                                                            Sponsored by: 

Sharad Ojha, a seasoned entrepreneur, excels in expanding businesses and cultivating brands. His drive to enact positive change in people’s lives led him to co-establish Hearing Excellence, CMS, HearFIT, and numerous other ventures.

Armed with a master’s degree in engineering and an MBA in business, Sharad is dedicated to enhancing the accessibility of audiology services and products within the community. Additionally, he has penned two enlightening books:

1. “From a traditional clinic to an eCommerce powerhouse: A Guide for Audiology Clinic Owners”
2. “Hearing: A neglected sense”

Residing in the picturesque town of Oakville with his wife and son, Sharad indulges in reading biographies, woodworking, exploring new destinations worldwide, and immersing himself in diverse cultures and traditions.

Audiology Economics: Seminar Hear the Success – Tune up the Profitability in Your Hearing Clinic  –  Thursday, May 9, 5:00-6:00pm

The presentation is titled Audiology Economics – Hear the Success – Tune up the Profitability in your Hearing Clinic. In this interesting presentation, Sharad will talk about ways to increase the efficiency of an audiology clinic. Opportunities to grow your practice by expanding services and products that are friendly for your client’s ears.

Megan Mah, B.C.L,LL.B.                                                                                                                                                                                         Sponsored by: 

Megan Mah is a Partner at WeirFoulds LLP with a diverse practice that focuses on human rights, employment, civil litigation, administrative and constitutional law. Megan advises clients on a range of litigation matters, including workplace disputes, discrimination and accommodation, sexual harassment and violence, wrongful and constructive dismissals, breaches of contracts, and professional discipline. She also has experience in facilitating training sessions focused on respect in the workplace, and in conducting workplace investigations. Megan is Past Chair of the Ontario Bar Association’s Constitutional, Civil Liberties and Human Rights Law Section and the current Chair of the Advocacy Committee of the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers. She was the recipient of the 2021 Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers Young Lawyer of the Year Award and the 2023 Lexpert Rising Stars Award.

Seminar: Training Requirements Under Ontario’s Accessibility Laws  –  Friday, May 10, 1:00-1:45pm

This session will provide you with an overview of your legal obligations under Ontario’s accessibility laws, with a specific focus on the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (the “AODA”). We will discuss how to identify the individuals who need to be provided with training, and how to identify the AODA requirements that apply to AHIP members. The session will provide you with a comprehensive outline of the topics that must be included in accessibility training. We will also discuss your legal obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code in relation to people with disabilities. Finally, we will provide you with some helpful resources to assist you with meeting your training requirements under Ontario’s accessibility legislation.

Robert Koch, MESc                                                                                                                                                                                                           Sponsored by: 

Robert Koch is the Founder and President of AHead Simulations. Robert has spent his career focused on improving methods of clinical education and working with the world’s top training programs to develop high performing hearing healthcare professionals. He invented the CARL Manikin during his Master’s of Biomedical Engineering at Western University with the National Centre for Audiology, and won the Canadian Governor General’s Gold Medal for this project in 2018.

Seminar:  Differentiate Through Continuous Learning  –  Friday, May 10, 1:45-2:30pm

In the rapidly changing and evolving landscape of hearing healthcare, emphasis on continuing education and quality of clinical care is essential to be the best clinic and clinician you can be. Expertise from the clinician, learning of the latest hearing technology/fittings, as well as adequately breaking it down for your patients trickle down to everything from hearing aid sales to conversion to time per appointment. This talk will discuss the importance of continued education, commonly seen educational gaps within hearing clinics today, and strategies and techniques that can be implemented for yourself, your practice, and your patients for optimal patient and financial outcomes.