As I sit at my computer looking at a blank screen, hoping for an inspired thought with which to start this new endeavor, I am reminded of the Chinese proverb: A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Knowing what to start writing about, for me, has always been the hardest part of putting pen to paper. However, in my case, it is forefingers to keypad (I am ambidextrous).
Although I have written a large number of reports, articles, instruction manuals, and novels, etcetera, most of my previous writings have been to codify my thoughts for myself. Here however, I want to present information that is both interesting and useful to you, the reader. To that end, I want to solicit ideas from you, our new found readers. What subjects do you want to read about? Business operations, professional advancement, sales trends, inter-disciplinary cooperation, employer/employee interactions, counseling issues – everything is on the table.
One subject we have all thought about and been affected by is the interaction between the various professional groups. Each group has tried to protect and where possible expand the rights of its members; this is part of why they were created. Unfortunately, the actions of any one group can cause a backlash from other “competitive” groups who might feel threatened. However, it seems to me that the dialogue between professional groups has improved over the past few years leading to greater respect and cooperation. I feel cooperation can achieve more for each of the groups than confrontation ever did. Cooperation benefits everyone: consumers, professionals, and manufacturers. Even though my oldest daughter is a highly accomplished lawyer, I don’t feel sorry for the legal counsels of each of the respective groups. They will, I am sure, not have any trouble finding other, more fertile fields to plow.
Now it’s time to get down off my soapbox and back to the purpose of this blog. First on my list of projects I hope to write about in the coming weeks, unless YOU ask for a discussion on another topic, is to try and present information on how the number of Dispensers and Audiologists has changed over the past five years, on a state by state basis. If anyone has any information on this subject, I hope you will share it with us.
Our discussions will be open and candid, but there are a few basic rules everyone should keep in mind. 1.) We are a truly independent group. 2.) Our only allegiance is to you, our readers. 3.) We will not allow any personal attacks or product specific promotion. 4.) This is an open internet site, meaning, anyone, professional or consumer, can read and respond to this blog. Other editors, will be writing blogs exploring the newest developments and research occurring in the fields of human hearing and balance. However, we will all have the same goal – providing you with information that is both current and relevant to your needs as a hearing healthcare professional (Audiologist or Dispenser) or as a Consumer of these services.
Now that I have taken my “first step” please join in and tell me what direction next week’s journey should take.
NOTE: Your responses will be shared with our readership unless marked “Private.”
