Summary: Starkey received the 2024 National Access Award from the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) for its commitment to advancing hearing technology and improving the lives of individuals with hearing loss.

Takeaways:

  1. Innovative Leadership: Starkey was recognized for leading the industry with the integration of artificial intelligence in hearing aids and its continuous innovation in hearing technology.
  2. Research and Education: Starkey’s research addresses challenges in complex listening environments and promotes assistive technologies like telecoils and hearing loops, enhancing accessibility and understanding in the hearing care community.
  3. Commitment to Quality of Life: Starkey’s efforts align with HLAA’s mission to improve hearing and overall well-being, ensuring individuals with hearing loss can thrive in various environments.

Starkey was awarded the 2024 National Access Award by the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) last month. The award was presented at the recent HLAA Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, and accepted by Dave Fabry, PhD, Starkey’s chief hearing health officer.

HLAA National Access Award

The HLAA National Access Award was given to Starkey in recognition of its unwavering commitment to research, innovation, and education, significantly enhancing the lives of individuals with hearing loss. This accolade underscores Starkey’s dedication to not only improving hearing, but also overall well-being through advanced technological solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI). Starkey led the industry with the incorporation of AI in hearing aids and continues to break new ground in innovation.

“Starkey’s influence extends beyond technological advancements,” says Barbara Kelley, executive director of HLAA. “Recent research funded by Starkey addresses a critical aspect of hearing healthcare often overlooked: the challenges faced by patients in complex listening environments. Their research highlights the significant role of assistive technologies. By actively disseminating their research findings through white papers and in-person conferences, Starkey educates the hearing care community on the benefits of these technologies. This effort promotes the adoption and understanding of telecoils and hearing loops, ultimately improving accessibility for individuals with hearing loss.”

By bridging the gap between technology and patient needs, Starkey and the HLAA are helping individuals with hearing loss live life to the fullest, according to the organizations.

“We are honored to receive the HLAA National Access Award,” says Brandon Sawalich, president and CEO of Starkey. “This recognition validates our relentless pursuit of innovative solutions that not only improve hearing but also enhance overall quality of life for those with hearing loss. Our mission aligns closely with HLAA’s, and we are committed to continuing our work to ensure that people with hearing loss can hear in as many places as possible and thrive wherever they go.”