Perspectives of audiologists on the management of vestibular balance problems in adults.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the evolving role of audiologists in the assessment and treatment of vestibular balance problems (VBPs) and to identify their perspectives on current practices, barriers, and opportunities for service development. DESIGN: A mixed methods study comprising an online survey and semi-structured interviews. STUDY SAMPLE: 116 audiologists from 21 countries completed the survey (Jordan [n = 34], Australia [n = 25], United Kingdom [n = 9], Singapore and South Africa [n = 7 each], the United States [n = 6], and 15 other countries [n < 5 each]). Nine participants (Australia [n = 5], Jordan [n = 3], and South Africa [n = 1]) completed follow-up interviews. RESULTS: Involvement in VBP assessment exceeded that in treatment, reflected in higher rates of training, activity, and confidence. Treatment was less commonly provided and more frequently referred to physiotherapists and ENTs. While most participants considered VBP management within scope of practice, interview findings revealed cross-country variation in role perception. Key barriers included limited practical training, low confidence in treatment delivery, restricted access to equipment and emerging technologies, and systemic constraints such as unclear referral pathways and poor reimbursement. CONCLUSION: Audiologists remain more engaged in assessment than treatment of VBP. Addressing gaps in structured training, role clarity, and system-level support is required to enable greater participation of audiologists in multidisciplinary care.