Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I expect from hearing aids?
The audiologist will closely monitor your initial fit. You are going to hear some things you have not heard for a long time. That is part of the process. Your brain will acclimate and your hearing aids will be fine tuned during this acclimation process. Success is due in large part to understanding this process and working with the audiologist tomeet your needs. Expect two to four office visits during the initial adjustment process. We ask all our patients to return to the clinic once or twice a year to be sure the performance of their hearing aid is optimal.
- What do hearing aids cost?
Prices vary by the technology and size. Depending on the type of hearing loss and each individual’s specific needs, the most suitable hearing aid will vary from person to person. It is the audiologist’s job to recommend the most appropriate device fo reach individual, while providing the options necessary in meeting an individual’s financial requirements.
- Will my insurance pay for this?
Medicare, Medicaid and some insurance companies cover hearing evaluations recommended by your doctor. Our office works with you to clarify your insurance coverage. However, it is best for you to contact your insurance company personally,and ask what their hearing aid coverage is foryour particular policy.
- What is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are university trained and hold a masters degree or doctorate in Audiology and/or Communication Disorders.
- Are there different kindsof hearing loss?
Yes. Audiologists refer to hearing loss as being either conductive or sensorineural. Both terms describe where the problem lies. With a conductive loss the problem is in the outer ear(pinna and/or ear canal) or middle ear (eardrum and/or ear bones). With a sensorineuralloss the problem is in the cochlea or hearingnerve.
- Is getting hearing aids all I can do for hearing loss?
No. Some forms of hearing loss can be treated surgically or with medication. Your hearing test results, in the form of an audiogram, will help determine how best to appropriately address your hearing loss.
- Can everyone with a hearing loss benefit from hearing aids?
Most everyone can; however, people whose hearing loss is predominately “neural” innature may not be able to understand speech clearly no matter how loud the speaker. Your complete audiologic examination will determine the degree and kind of loss you have.
- Are there other options besides hearing aids?
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) amplify sounds from telephones, TVs, alarm clocks,door bells, and fire alarms. Our clinic can order a wide variety of products to suit your needs.
- What hearing aid is best for me?
An audiologist can best help you determine which style and features will most benefit you by interpreting your hearing test results and by meeting withyour lifestyle.
