Evan Smith kept noticing the same pattern while shadowing in the UK College of Medicine Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Patients qualified for hearing aids. They wanted to improve their hearing. But the conversation often ended the same way — with cost.
“The barrier was rarely a lack of motivation,” said Smith, a third-year medical student. “Patients want to hear better. They want to stay engaged with their families and communities, but financial limitations often dictate the outcome.”
Because Medicare does not routinely cover hearing aids and Medicaid coverage can leave high out-of-pocket costs, many patients are unable to move forward with recommended treatment.
Rather than accept that gap, Smith helped create a solution.
On March 14 at 8 a.m. ET, the department will host its third annual World Hearing Day 5K at Coldstream Research Campus. The event raises funds to help offset the cost of hearing aids for patients with financial need.
In the clinic, Smith saw how dramatically hearing aids and cochlear implants can improve quality of life. “Restoring hearing affects far more than just sound perception,” he said. “It improves communication, safety, employment, and independence.”
“When you repeatedly see patients who would benefit from treatment but cannot afford it, it becomes clear that action outside the clinic can make a difference,” said Smith.
Working with Beth McNulty, MD, associate professor of otolaryngology and advanced development director for the department, Lisa Gardner, department staffer, and fourth-year medical student Dylan Johnson, Smith helped launch the inaugural World Hearing Day 5K.
The first in-person event was modest. Runners were hand-timed with a clipboard, the course was marked with sidewalk chalk, and Smith made the awards himself — wood-burned ears. Even so, the group raised about $1,000.
Now in its third year, the race will include professional timing by Race Rise, improved materials, and broader outreach. The goal is to increase participation and grow the fund that supports patients in need.
“I hope participants leave knowing their involvement has a direct impact,” Smith said. “Every registration and donation will help reduce a financial barrier that might otherwise prevent someone from receiving care.”
Event Details
World Hearing Day 5K
March 14 | 8 a.m.
Coldstream Research Campus
$25 registration (includes T-shirt)
Participants of all levels are welcome. Donations are also accepted. Participation directly supports expanded access to hearing care for Kentuckians in need. Learn more and register.
