Steps to Obtaining Hearing Aids
Obtaining hearing aids involves several appointments described
below.
Step 1: Audiologic evaluation (hearing test)
The first step is to have your hearing evaluated. An audiologist, a
professional who specializes in evaluating and treating hearing loss, will
determine the type and degree of your hearing loss and its impact on your
ability to communicate.
Step 2: Medical clearance
Obtaining medical clearance from your physician is in your best health
interest. The physician determines that your hearing cannot be improved by
medical or surgical treatment. Before you can be fitted for hearing aids, you
must either obtain a written statement from your physician or sign a medical
waiver. Individuals 18 years of age or younger must receive medical clearance
from a physician, preferably an otolaryngologist, prior to being fit with
hearing aids.
Step 3: Hearing needs assessment
In this 1-hour appointment, an audiologist will discuss the various types of
hearing aid styles, the latest technological advances, and what you can expect
from your hearing aids. Together, you and the audiologist will decide which
hearing aids are the most appropriate for you, given your individual lifestyle
and listening needs. If needed, impressions will be made of your ears so that
your hearing aids can be custom-fit.
Step 4: Hearing aid dispensing or hearing aid orientation
Your hearing aids will arrive about 2-3 weeks after your hearing aid
evaluation. At this time, you will return for a 1.5-hour fitting appointment.
The actual physical fit will be verified: hearing aids should never cause you
physical discomfort. The hearing aids will be adjusted or programmed to your
specific hearing needs. The proper care, use, and maintenance (including
warranty) of the hearing aids will be explained to you. During this visit, you
will have time to practice inserting and removing the hearing aid and the
hearing aid battery, and to manipulate any controls the hearing aid may have.
Step 5: Follow-up hearing aid consultation
A follow-up hearing aid consultation is scheduled in the first few weeks
following your initial fitting. This visit is important so that your audiologist
can answer any questions you may have. The hearing aids may be "fine-tuned" and
additional testing may be conducted, if necessary. Remember: it takes time to
adjust to your hearing aids. As you learn to listen with your hearing aids, your
listening demands change. For this reason, it is important to return for these
follow-up appointments to obtain the maximum benefit from your hearing aids. You
may require more than one follow-up visit to get your hearing aids "fine-tuned."
How much time is involved in obtaining and adjusting to wearing
hearing aids?
Expect to return several times for the fitting and fine-tuning of your
hearing aids. In addition to the initial follow-up consultation, you should
return within the year for a hearing aid check. Based on your listening
experiences during the first few months of hearing aid use, you may have
questions that need to be addressed, and your hearing aids may require some
minor adjustments.
How much does it cost to get hearing aids?
Hearing needs assessment fee $100
This fee is payable at the conclusion of the evaluation, even if
you decide not to purchase hearing aids. In most cases, this fee is not covered
by your medical insurance.
Hearing aid cost: Price varies
Remember, hearing aids are an investment in your ability to communicate with
family, friends, and business associates. Please be advised that Medicare and
most insurance carriers do not pay for hearing aids or associated fees. We
encourage you, however, to check with your insurance carrier to determine if
hearing aids are a covered expense.
The cost of the hearing aid is determined by the style, size and
level of the signal processing technology. The cost of the hearing aid covers
all hearing aid follow-up visits for 1 year following the purchase of your
hearing aids. Full payment is required on the day of the hearing aid fitting.
What about hearing aid returns and repairs?
After hearing aids are purchased, there is a 30-day right-to-return period
for new and undamaged hearing aids. You will receive a refund for the cost of
the hearing aids, minus the $300 nonrefundable fitting fee if the devices are
returned within that period.
All new hearing aids are covered by at least a 1-year warranty
for service. Many also have a damage policy. There is a fee for replacement of
hearing aids that are lost or damaged beyond repair. The cost of repairs to
hearing aids that are out of warranty will be the responsibility of the patient.
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