I understand that this test is regarded as foolproof by comparison with the older Air and Bone Conduction methods, in particular by the DWP and Tribunals.

I am sceptical of tests that claim absolute reliability so has anyone had any experience of raising doubts about the accuracy of findings either by pointing to potential for error built into the method itself, eg fallibility of the electronics/mechanics of the system, or its application to individuals, eg variations arising from something like skin conductivity.

Malcolm Crawford/Tim Law
Derby Advice

In case it's of any use, there's a DWP review report of tests for PDA 10 on the internet at

http://www.iiac.org.uk/reports/cm5672-occdeaf.pdf

appendix 6 seems to discuss relative benefits of ERA and points out some limitations.

(Out of interest, as I could do with understanding the tests better myself, I did a Google search on the subject title of your posting and this is what came up.)

Bernard Ekbery
Welfare Benefits Caseworker
Manchester CABx

Hi

Apologies for the late response.

Cortical Evoked Response Audiometry (CERA)

CERA slow vertex potentials are used to provide objective information about mid to low frequency hearing and auditory perceptual dysfunction in cases where subject co-operation is unreliable. Clinical applications of CERA include estimation of auditory Acuity and neuro-otological diagnosis for cochlear or central (brainstem) disorders.

The test itself when requested by the DWP/Appeals Service, may suggest that there is a suspicion of malingering. The test itself cannot be mislead by the subject, therefore they are regarded as being conclusive as evidence for a tribunal.

Hope this helps.