2015 Health Care Champions Audiology Specialist: Linda Curbow

Linda Curbow is a trailblazer.

When she started her career in 1983, she was the only dispensing audiologist in Springfield. In 2004, Curbow became the first specialist in Ferrell-Duncan Clinic’s audiology department to earn a doctorate degree after the requirement in the office moved from a master’s degree.

“I am proud to have been responsible for the growth in our health care system, where, to date, we have five doctoral level audiologists in the clinic,” she says.

At the CoxHealth clinic, Curbow serves as the lead audiologist and performs a range of functions with one ultimate goal: helping patients enhance their communication.

While she diagnoses hearing loss for patients of all ages, the baby boomer generation moving into retirement means the majority of her caseload is weighted to those older than 50 experiencing presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss.

Curbow works with a team of audiologists and ear, nose and throat physicians to determine the best treatment plan, whether it be hearing aids or other assistive listening devices.

In addition to preventing hearing-related isolation, Curbow says audiology services keep employees in the workforce longer.

“It is the patients who have etched their way into my heart and soul and continue to fuel my passion for audiology,” she says. “Their stories have impacted my life as I have been responsible for helping them hear better in a world that has gradually become silent.”

In her career spanning over three decades, Curbow has demonstrated a strong work ethic learned early in life from her parents. She utilizes that value system in her dealings with other Ferrell-Duncan staff members.

“I am grateful to work with a team of dedicated audiologists whom I have mentored, supervised and led for over 30 years,” Curbow says.

“They inspire me to continue to perform my best on a daily basis, and it is a team effort unlike any I have ever known.”

Heather Coulter, supervisor for Ferrell-Duncan’s audiology and otolaryngology departments, says Curbow’s moral and ethical behavior positions her as a key clinic employee.

“She is focused on putting her patients’ well-being first and foremost and shows each person kindness and respect while providing superior quality care and excellent customer service,” Coulter says. “Her attention to detail delivers test results that are consistently accurate and thorough. She implements best practices and strives to create a positive and stress-free environment for her patients and their families.”

In 2005, then Gov. Matt Blunt selected Curbow to serve a three-year term on the state Board of Examiners for Hearing Instrument Specialists, which approves qualified applicants for licenses by examination.

In the community, Curbow has provided free hearing screenings through health fairs and expos. She’s also volunteered for The Kitchen Inc., Council of Churches of the Ozarks and the Campbell United Methodist Church.