Practice Trends in (C)APD Assessment and Management: A Survey of Audiologists in Kerala.

Present study investigates the current trends in (Central) Auditory Processing Disorder [(C)APD] assessment and management practices among Audiologists practicing in Kerala, India. The questionnaire for the survey was developed based on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) model and underwent validation by experts in Audiology. Online survey was conducted to collect data from Audiologists practicing in Kerala, with a valid RCI-CRR number. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the responses. The majority of participants held bachelor's degrees and completed training modules on the assessment of (C)APD during their undergraduate studies. However, clinical exposure was very low. Even though 59.2% of participants reported that they were performing screening for (C)APD, the use of standardized screening tools was limited. Only 35% of participants reported that they were performing diagnostic evaluation. However, the rest of the participants used only speech-in-noise tests for (C)APD evaluation. The participants who performed management of (C)APD were even fewer, at only 13.4%. Lack of facilities, inadequate patient load, and lack of practical exposure were major obstacles to (C)APD assessment and management. The majority of participants strongly agreed that Audiologists are the most qualified persons to deal with (C)APD; however, the practice trends obtained from the study suggest that Audiologists have a really poor practice in this area. The study highlights the need for standardized assessment tools, improved training opportunities, and increased awareness among Audiologists regarding (C)APD. Multidisciplinary collaboration and further research are essential for enhancing (C)APD assessment and management practices in Kerala.