How to Get Hearing Aids

Are you looking to buy hearing aids? Before buying it, you should consider having a hearing evaluation done to determine the type and amount of your hearing loss. The process of evaluation can begin with a medical and/or audiological examination. Here are some things you should know.

• Medical examination: This type of medical exam may be performed by any licensed physician including your family pediatrician or doctor. Preferably, it should be done by an ear, nose, and throat specialist (an otolaryngologist). An examination of your nose, ear, and throat and possibly another testing can be done to rule out any medical reason for your hearing loss, such as injuries, infection or deformity, ear wax in the ear canal, and, in rare cases, tumors.
• Audiological examination: This evaluation is done by a health professional that specializes in non-medical treatment and rehabilitation of hearing loss to identify the type and amount of your hearing loss. This is done to determine the need for medical or surgical treatment by a licensed physician and to provide rehabilitation for hearing loss.

Where Should I Go to Get Hearing Aids?

Most times, hearing aids are sold by hearing health care professionals, aka, audiologists, who can perform a hearing assessment and hearing aid evaluation. If you are concerned that a medical condition has caused your hearing loss, it is recommended that you have a medical evaluation done by a licensed physician. To find out if an audiologist is licensed, you can check with your local Better Business Bureau, State Attorney General’s office, consumer protection agency, or the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Questions You Should Ask Before Buying Hearing Aids

Before purchasing a hearing aid, consider asking a hearing healthcare professional these questions:

• Which style and type of hearing aids would most meet my needs?
• What specific features do my hearing aids need to have to fit my lifestyle?
• Do I need one or two hearing aids?
• What is the total cost of the hearing aids/aid?
• Is there a trial period for me to test out the hearing aids? 
• What fees are considered non-refundable if I were to return the hearing aids after the trial/adjustment period?
• How long is the hearing aids warranty? Can it be extended?
• How should I care for my hearing aids?