Background
At the IFHOH 4th conference about hearing loops and technology held in Berlin, October 6-8, 2017, a proposal was made for the formation of a Steering Committee. The Committee was established in 2018 and has held several meetings by internet.
The aims of the Committee are:
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To foster a greater understanding and awareness of the benefits of accessible technology and sound systems for persons with hearing loss with particular attention paid to hearing loop technology
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To further developments for hearing technology and hearing loop technology use and availability as well as continual improvements in technology
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To foster improved telecoil function and innovative application and raise awareness of its benefits among the providers in the hearing industry providers.
Objectives are:
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To develop a strategic plan for the development and promotion of hearing technology including hearing loop technology worldwide.
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To develop a mapping plan of existing technology and resources
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To assist IFHOH in the planning for the next Future Loops and Technology event/conference.
The scope of the work is recognized to encompass a wide audience: consumers, advocates, audiologists, hearing aid and cochlear implant industry providers, sound engineers, architect, audio/visual designers and installers, facilities covered by disability laws, accessibility committee, manufactures of assistive listening systems, and others interested in this technology.
The Committee has a steering committee of six consumer and professional representatives.
Membership of the Steering Committee:
Mr. Andrew Thomas, International Hearing loop Manufacturers Association (Chair)
Dr. Ruth Warick, President of IFHOH
Mr. Avi Blau, Vice President of IFHOH
Dr. Hans Seidler, DSB – German Association of the Hard of Hearing
Dr. Juliette Sterkens, HLAA Hearing Loop Advocate
Dr. Rob Drullman, Secretary of the EHIMA Technical Committee
Observer
Mr. Marcel Bobeldijk, President of EFHOH