The Learning Center for the Deaf (TLC) Audiology Clinic has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the MetroWest Health Foundation.
Director of the Audiology Clinic Lydia Colón, Au.D, says she is excited to expand patient technology and testing for the MetroWest community.
“The ability to grow and expand our services within the MetroWest community is so critical, especially during a time where health and safety is paramount for everyone,” Colón said. “We want to thank MetroWest Health Foundation for supporting its local businesses and agencies and offering support to enhance healthcare services for all ages.”
The grant will be used in four distinct ways, Colón stated. First, the funds will be used to replace a major piece of equipment which is routinely used to detect any pathologies within the ear that might be contributing to a patient's hearing loss or symptoms. Second, it will be used to purchase a portable audiometer, which is designed for specialized diagnostic testing for children under age 5, or for older children and adults with developmental delays who also benefit from this service. Third, the funding will help to purchase audiology testing material in Portuguese and Spanish to better meet the needs of the growing diverse community in the Framingham area. Finally, the grant will be useful in purchasing medical-grade laptops to better provide secure Telehealth services for TLC’s client base.
The technology is useful outside the clinic as well, Colón explained, adding the audiometer can be used at local health fairs, schools, senior centers, and other community venues.
The MetroWest Health Foundation recently announced over $1.1 million in new grants to area organizations to support a variety of community projects aimed at reducing teen vaping, addressing health equity, health workforce improvements and efforts to improve health and health care in the region.
The TLC Audiology Clinic was temporarily closed due to COVID-19, but reopened on June 1 and is providing appointments for new and existing patients of all ages. The clinic also continues to offer remote Telehealth and curbside services at its Framingham campus, while prioritizing the safety of its staff and patients with the use of PPE, flexible appointment times and temperature checks, among other protocols.
The Outpatient Audiology Clinic at The Learning Center for the Deaf won the 2019 Best of the Best MetroWest Award for Audiology.