At Sioux Falls Audiology Associates, we understand starting your hearing health journey can feel overwhelming. That's why our lead audiologist, Dr. Mandy Rounseville-Norgaard, draws on both her 15 years of professional experience and personal insight from wearing hearing aids since age 3 to guide patients through every step. Serving Sioux Falls and surrounding South Dakota communities, our approach combines thorough diagnostic testing, customized treatment plans, and comprehensive follow-up care to help you achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.

We prioritize evidence-based practices, including Real Ear Measurement - a verification method used by only 35% of providers that ensures hearing aids are programmed to deliver the exact amplification you need. Our commitment extends beyond initial fittings through regular check-ups, cleanings, and adjustments as your hearing needs change over time.

Why Choose an Audiologist?

Audiologists undergo rigorous academic and clinical training to become experts in hearing healthcare. The path to becoming an audiologist requires earning a doctoral degree (Au.D.), which involves 4 years of intensive graduate study and thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience after completing a bachelor's degree. This comprehensive education covers anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, acoustics, psychoacoustics, hearing disorders, treatment methods, and hearing aid technology.

The depth of an audiologist's training becomes particularly valuable when addressing hearing loss, which can significantly impact both physical and emotional well-being. Unlike basic hearing screenings or over-the-counter solutions, audiologists provide thorough diagnostic evaluations to identify the type and cause of hearing loss. This allows us to develop personalized treatment plans that consider your specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and overall health.

At Sioux Falls Audiology Associates, Dr. Mandy Rounseville-Norgaard combines her 15 years of professional experience with unique personal insight from wearing hearing aids since age 3. This dual perspective enables her to understand both the technical aspects of hearing care and the daily experiences of living with hearing loss. Her background includes work in private practice, ear nose and throat clinics, educational settings, OSHA hearing conservation programs, and the Department of Veteran Affairs. As a military family with her husband serving 20 years in the Army, Dr. Norgaard brings special insight into serving our veteran community.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your initial appointment involves several key steps to assess your hearing health comprehensively:

Medical History Discussion

We begin by reviewing your medical history and current hearing challenges. This helps us understand potential causes of hearing loss and how it impacts your daily life. We'll ask about situations where you have difficulty hearing and any previous hearing tests or treatments.

Physical Ear Examination

Using an otoscope, we examine your ear canal and eardrum to check for any physical issues like earwax buildup, infection, or structural abnormalities that might affect your hearing.

Comprehensive Hearing Tests

The hearing evaluation takes place in a quiet room to ensure accurate results. You'll wear headphones and respond to sounds at different frequencies and volumes. We also assess speech understanding through word recognition tests. These evaluations help determine the type and degree of hearing loss present.

Reviewing Your Results

After testing, we explain your audiogram - a graph showing your hearing levels across different frequencies. This visual representation helps you understand which sounds you hear well and which ones you may be missing. We discuss how any hearing loss impacts your communication and daily activities.

Modern Hearing Aid Technology

If hearing aids would benefit you, today's devices offer features specially suited to our clientele's lifestyles:

Starkey Edge AI

Edge AI features AI technology with a G2 Neuro Processor for real-time sound processing. The Neuro Sound Technology 2.0 mimics brain processing through sensory, subconscious, and conscious areas to enhance speech while reducing noise. They provide up to 51 hours of battery life and include waterproof protection up to 1 meter for rechargeable models. With Bluetooth LE Audio, they connect quickly and stream robustly while the My Starkey app offers control features and health benefits including balance assessment.

ReSound Vivia

Built for our active lifestyle, Vivia provides clear sound even in challenging outdoor conditions. With 30 hours of battery life and robust dust protection, these devices handle farm work, outdoor recreation, and daily activities with ease.

Oticon Intent

Perfect for our varying seasons, Intent adapts to both quiet and noisy environments. Its wind noise management system helps during blustery South Dakota days, while direct streaming keeps you connected during indoor activities.

Widex Moment Sheer

Ideal for music lovers and those wanting natural sound quality, Widex Moment Sheer performs well in both quiet rural settings and busy social gatherings. Its weather-resistant design stands up to South Dakota conditions.

Professional Fitting and Ongoing Care

We use Real Ear Measurement (REM) during fitting to ensure your hearing aids provide the exact amplification you need. This objective verification method is considered the gold standard but is only offered by about 35% of hearing care providers.

Beyond the initial fitting, we provide regular follow-up care to:

• Fine-tune settings as you adjust to amplification
• Address any concerns or difficulties
• Clean and maintain your devices
• Monitor changes in your hearing
• Update programming as needed

Tinnitus Management

For those experiencing ringing in the ears, particularly common among veterans and agricultural workers, we offer comprehensive tinnitus management programs. Our solutions combine sound therapy, counseling, and hearing aid features specifically designed to provide tinnitus relief.

Weather-Ready Hearing Care

South Dakota weather presents unique challenges for hearing aid users. We provide guidance on protecting devices during extreme temperatures, managing moisture in humid summers, and maintaining performance during dusty conditions. Our team helps you select hearing aids with appropriate IP ratings for moisture and dust protection.

Remote Care Options

Many modern hearing aids now offer TeleHear capabilities, allowing us to make adjustments remotely. This feature proves invaluable for our rural patients who may face long travel times, particularly during challenging weather conditions.

Custom Protection for South Dakota Activities

We offer specialized hearing protection for:

• Agricultural work and heavy equipment operation
• Hunting and shooting sports
• Motorsports and recreational vehicles
• Musicians and concert attendance
• Industrial and construction work

Community Education and Support

Our practice regularly offers free educational seminars for community groups throughout the Sioux Falls area. Topics include hearing loss prevention, understanding hearing aid technology, and communication strategies. We welcome invitations from local organizations interested in learning more about hearing health.

Insurance and Veterans' Benefits

As a veteran-owned business and recipient of the DAV Outstanding Support award, we understand the complexities of VA benefits and insurance coverage. Our staff assists patients in navigating both private insurance and VA benefits to access the care they need.

Your Next Step Toward Better Hearing

Located conveniently in Sioux Falls with flexible scheduling options, we make accessing quality hearing care simple. Our team provides comprehensive care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment. Contact us at 605-306-3050 to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey to better hearing health.