Validation of a tablet-based application for hearing self-screening in an adult population

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the diagnostic performances of a tablet-based hearing screening test by assisted-test and self-test modes.

Design/method: Measurements were performed with the SoTone tests in normal hearing and hearing-impaired adult participants using an Android tablet and calibrated Bluetooth headphones. The duration of assisted- and self-test modes were compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted after calculations of sensitivity and specificity at 20, 30, and 35 dB HL cut-off values.

Study sample: 217 participants performed the tests. The effect of test mode (assisted versus self) was compared in a sample of 103 participants.

Results: Self-test duration (89 s) was significantly longer than the assisted-test duration (75 s) (p = 0.003, Wilcoxon test). For the 20, 30, and 35 dB HL cut-off values, sensitivity was between 92% and 96%, and specificity was between 79 and 90%. Concordance of results between assisted-test and self-test modes was excellent (Cohen's kappa = 0.81, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: The SoTone hearing screening test is accurate for identifying the presence of a suspected hearing loss at 20 dB HL or more in adults. It can be used either in assisted-test or self-test modes.

Keywords: Hearing screening test; accuracy; mobile application; self-administered; wireless headphone.