What is an Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?
A child with an Auditory Processing Disorder has difficulty interpreting auditory information.
Children may have difficulty with the following:
- Hearing, although the hearing test is normal
- Requires frequent repetition; often asks “what?”
- Trouble paying attention to and remembering information presented orally
- Problems carrying out multistep directions
- Poor listening skills
- Needs more time to process auditory information
- Difficulty with reading, comprehension, spelling, and vocabulary
Children with APD may also have low academic performance, behavior problems and/or language difficulties.
Who Should Have an Auditory Processing Evaluation?
If a child displays the above symptoms, parents should discuss concerns with their pediatrician. Children must be at least 7 years of age and be able to attend to information presented.
The Auditory Processing Evaluation
Test time is approximately 90 minutes. A hearing test is performed to confirm that the child’s hearing is normal. Tests are performed that require the child to respond to what they hear. Words, numbers, sentences, or tones are presented in complex listening environments.
Other tests that measure the auditory system’s responses to sound may also be administered if needed. These tests do not require responses from the child and are not uncomfortable in any way.
Most APD evaluations can be completed in one 90 minute session. A second appointment will be scheduled if needed. A written report will be completed and will be sent to the pediatrician and parent and, if requested, the school. The report will include recommendations for the home and school.
How Appointments are Made
Prior to making an appointment, it is important to discuss the concerns with the Pediatrician. He/she will provide a prescription if the test is needed. The parent would read the APD Letter to the Parents, APD Instructions and complete the APD History Form. Forms can be found under the forms section of our website, clicking below or calling (631)444-4191. The completed form would need to be returned to the Department (fax 444-4582 or secure email to speechandhearing@stonybrookmedicine.edu), along with a copy of any other evaluations and current IEP. This information will be reviewed by an audiologist and the parent will be contacted to schedule an appointment. A prescription from the referring physician would need to be attached to the history form.
Will the insurance company pay for the testing?
The parent would need to call the insurance company prior to the testing and confirm that the following procedure codes are covered: 92552, 92556, 92570, 92588, 92620, and 92621. Some insurance companies do not pay for the APD evaluation.