UF opens new speech and hearing clinic, offers free hearing tests

September 10, 2007

GAINESVILLE, Fla.— The University of Florida Speech and Hearing Clinic has added a new off-campus facility at 1405 N.W. 13th St. The full-service audiology clinic offers diagnostics and rehabilitation, including the selection and fitting of hearing aids and assistive listening devices.

The Speech and Hearing Clinic has operated for more than 40 years in historic Dauer Hall on the University of Florida campus. The new office was established to provide a more accessible location for off-campus patients.

“It was difficult for our patients to find our location on campus and then navigate their way to the fourth floor of Dauer,” said clinic Director Michelle Colburn. “Parking was very limited, and with a growing speech language and audiology clinic, not adequate.”

Throughout September, the clinic is offering free hearing screenings by appointment. An annual hearing checkup is recommended for people 45 and older. Common symptoms of hearing loss include: pain or ringing in the ears, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, having a difficult time understanding others without wearing glasses or looking the subject directly in the face, difficulty following a group conversation and complaints from others about the chosen volume level of radios or televisions. Colburn said those who identify with these symptoms should see an audiologist for a hearing test.

The schedule an appointment for a free hearing screening at either location, contact the UF Speech and Hearing Clinic at 352-392-2041 or 352-273-0542.