We know there are a lot of choices out there for your hearing instrument, and as you begin the journey to finding the right hearing device, we want to providesome information to help you make an educated decision in an often confusing market. There are three things that are critically important to investigate before investing in your hearing instruments:
1. The lowest price is rarely the best value. Hearing instruments are a significant investment. When devices are recommended, the primary focus should be to find the right technology to meet your needs! Hearing instruments should be successful in the environments in which you live, socialize and work, and the process to find the right fit takes more than an online search. Audiologists are highly trained in ensuring ultimate satisfaction with hearing devices. Additionally it’s important to ask what the price is really paying for. Is a warranty included? Are follow-up visits free? What happens if the device needs re-programming? These are all questions that you should make sure to ask as you visit different audiologists.
2. Service. Research has proven that professional services before, during and after the initial hearing instrument fit are vital to the success of the patients use of the devices. Unfortunately, many supplies of hearing instruments do not provide these services; they are simply treat hearing instruments as any other retail product, handing them over leaving you to figure them out and deal with any problems that may arise. Make sure you ask about the services that come with the purchase of your hearing instrument, as this can be the true value of the instruments. The truth is in order to make the value of your hearing instrument last, servicing them through cleanings and adjustments can make the devices last five years longer than unmamintained instruments.
3. Get the Doctor’s opinion. In nearly all states in America, the only necessary degree for dispensing hearing instruments is a high school diploma. Some require a technical two year degree which focuses primarily on dispensing hearing instruments. Doctors of Audiology (AuD) are the most qualified, educated and uniquely trained professionals in hearing diagnosis, rehabilitation, counseling and treatment; especially in the science of fitting digital hearing instruments and managing the psychosocial aspects of hearing loss. Each person is unique, requiring personalized solutions for their specific hearing needs, and Doctors of Audiology have the education through years of schooling and residencies to ensure all your needs are met.
We encourage you to seek out these answers as you search for the right fit! Our doctors and front office staff would be thrilled to discuss with you what makes us stand apart from other facilities and big box retailers. We are proud of our service, and personalization for each patient. Contact us today with your questions, we’re here to help!