A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effects of motivational interviewing in new hearing aid users (MI-HAT): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

• Background: : Hearing loss is the third leading global cause of disability and is associated with poorer quality of life. Hearing aids are often recommended for hearing loss; however, hearing aid uptake and use rates are perpetually low. Motivational interviewing (MI) is a patient-centered counselling aimed at addressing desire in the patient to change their behaviour. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of one-on-one MI sessions on hearing aid use among new adult users • Methods: A multi-center, prospective, randomized patient-blind controlled trial with a pre- and post- tests design. New hearing aid users ≥ 18 years of age will be recruited from Vancouver, Canada. They will be randomly assigned to a treatment or control group. The treatment group will attend a one-on-one MI session hosted by a practicing MI therapist in addition to standard in-person audiological care. The control group will receive standard in-person audiological care. Data is collected at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months follow-ups. The primary outcomes are data-logged hearing aid use hours and patient reported outcomes as measured by the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids questionnaire. Associations between intervention and hearing aid use hours, and self-reported outcome measures will be assessed. • Discussion: This trial is designed to evaluate the efficacy of one-on-one MI in improving hearing aid use in new adult users in the short- and long- terms. Results will contribute to the evidence on whether MI counselling has an effect on hearing aid use and may guide future clinical practices.. • Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov. Review Board NCT04673565. Approved: December 17, 2020. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04673565?cond=motivational+interviewing&cntry=CA&draw=2&rank=8