May is Speech and Hearing Awareness Month

Eve Tolbert (courtesy photo)

ST. IGNATIUS - "May is Better Hearing and Speech month. During this time audiologists and speech-language pathologists receive recognition for the great work they do and promote the importance of their services.

Better Speech and Hearing Month has two primary purposes-education and awareness.

Hearing is one our most vital senses. Managing and maintaining the health and quality of this system is important to everyday life. Audiologists are experts in the non-medical management of the auditory and balance systems. They specialize in preventing and assessing hearing, and dizziness disorders as well as providing audiologic treatment including hearing aids.

Speech-language pathologists identify, assess, and treat speech and language problems including swallowing disorders. Additionally they promote treatment that can improve the quality of life for those who experience problems with speaking, understanding, or hearing.

If you have a concern that you or a family member might have a communication disorder, you should contact your doctor or a certified audiologist or speech-language pathologist right away.

Tribal Health & Human Services provides these services. Eve Tolbert is the audiologist/speech-language pathologist. She can be reached at 745-3525, extension 5038, on Tuesday's. Or you can contact Bev Hill, extension 5010 to schedule an appointment.